Vertigo/Dizziness and Syncope
Vertigo, dizziness and syncope (fainting) are distinct neurological conditions that affect balance, perception and consciousness. While these terms are often used interchangeably, each describes specific symptoms with different underlying causes. Understanding these conditions empowers you to recognize warning signs, seek appropriate care and explore effective treatments.
What Are Vertigo, Dizziness and Syncope?
Vertigo is a specific sensation where you feel like you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when they are not. Dizziness is a broader term encompassing feelings of lightheadedness, faintness, unsteadiness or being off-balance. Syncope (fainting) is a temporary loss of consciousness caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
For comprehensive information, visit the Vestibular Disorders Association.
Signs and Symptoms
Each condition presents with distinct characteristics that aid in proper diagnosis:
| Condition | Primary Symptoms | Associated Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vertigo | Spinning sensation, feeling like surroundings are moving | Nausea, vomiting, balance problems, nystagmus (eye movements) |
| Dizziness | Lightheadedness, faintness, unsteadiness | Weakness, difficulty concentrating, feeling “woozy” |
| Syncope | Temporary loss of consciousness, fainting | Pale skin, cold sweats, nausea, blurred vision before fainting |
Pre-syncope warning signs include tunnel vision, feeling warm, lightheadedness and nausea. These symptoms may help distinguish between the conditions and guide appropriate evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The underlying causes vary significantly between these conditions:
Vertigo Causes:
Peripheral: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis
Central: Stroke, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, vestibular migraine
Dizziness Causes:
Dehydration, low blood sugar, medications, anxiety, cardiovascular problems, vision issues
Syncope Causes:
Vasovagal: Emotional stress, prolonged standing, pain (most common)
Cardiac: Arrhythmias, valve disease, heart attack
Orthostatic: Blood pressure drops when standing
Learn more about risk factors from the American Heart Association.
How These Conditions Are Diagnosed
Accurate diagnosis requires systematic evaluation:
Detailed History: Symptom characteristics, triggers, duration and associated features
Physical Examination: Neurological assessment, orthostatic vital signs, balance testing
Specialized Tests:
Vertigo: Dix-Hallpike test, audiometry, vestibular function testing
Syncope: Electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, tilt table testing
Both: Blood tests, imaging studies when clinically indicated
Dr. Singh employs comprehensive diagnostic protocols to differentiate between these conditions and identify underlying causes.
Treatment and Management
Treatment approaches are tailored to the specific condition and underlying cause:
Vertigo Treatment:
Physical Therapy: Canalith repositioning maneuvers (Epley, Semont), vestibular rehabilitation therapy
Medications: Antihistamines, benzodiazepines for acute episodes
Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding rapid head movements, stress management
Dizziness Management:
Address Underlying Causes: Hydration, medication adjustments, vision correction
Balance Training: Exercises to improve stability and reduce fall risk
Syncope Treatment:
Lifestyle Measures: Increased fluid and salt intake, compression stockings
Medications: Fludrocortisone for vasovagal syncope when severe
Cardiac Interventions: Pacemakers or defibrillators for cardiac causes
Explore personalized treatment options on our Treatments page.
Taking the Next Step
If you experience spinning sensations, persistent dizziness or fainting episodes, seek prompt evaluation. Early diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and prevents complications.
Schedule your assessment via our Book Appointment page.
For questions or support, visit our Contact Us page.
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