Dizziness and Vertigo

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Dizziness and vertigo can be deeply unsettling: affecting balance, concentration, and overall well-being. Many people underestimate how disruptive these symptoms can be, particularly when they interfere with daily life. In my practice, I work closely with patients to understand the cause of their dizziness and provide tailored treatment plans to help restore stability.

Causes of Dizziness and Vertigo

Dizziness can stem from various conditions, including:

  • Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) – Caused by tiny crystals moving within the inner ear, triggering sudden spinning sensations when changing head positions.
  • Ménière’s Disease – A disorder linked to fluid imbalance in the inner ear, often accompanied by tinnitus and hearing loss.
  • Vestibular Neuritis and Labyrinthitis – Infections or inflammation affecting the inner ear or balance nerve, leading to prolonged dizziness.
  • Heart Issues – Low blood pressure, anaemia or circulatory conditions can trigger dizziness or vertigo

Diagnosis

A thorough evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause of dizziness:

  • Medical History – Understanding symptoms, duration and triggers, as well as any other medical issues you have been diagnosed with and your current medication
  • Physical Examination and Balance Tests – Simple tests, such as moving from sitting to lying down quickly, can help assess balance function.
  • Ear Examination – Using an otoscope, I examine the ear canal and ear drum structures. 
  • Hearing Test – A pure-tone audiometry and tympanogram tests to assess hearing function, as some inner ear disorders affect both balance and hearing.
  • Additional Tests – In some cases, imaging (CT/MRI scans) or full vestibular testing (complex balance tests done by a trusted audiological consultant colleague) may be recommended to rule out underlying conditions.
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Treatment Options

Managing dizziness often requires collaboration between specialists. As an ENT doctor I will start with straight forward treatments. Here are the most common treatments for vertigo:

  • Epley Manoeuvre – A repositioning technique used to treat BPPV by guiding displaced inner ear crystals back into place.
  • Medication – Vestibular sedatives for short-term relief (long-term use is discouraged)
  • Lifestyle– Avoiding sudden head movements, hydration, changes to diet (low salt diet) and managing stress can help

I can also involve other specialists, if dizziness remains despite treatment. Usually a neurologist (to see if it’s linked to a possible neurological condition) or Physical Therapists to see if vestibular rehabilitation exercises can improve stability. I am experienced in treating patients with vertigo and can give the best possible care. If you’re struggling with vertigo. Click here to make an enquiry.