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Dizzy woman suffering from vertigo

“Why Am I Dizzy?” Common Causes of Dizziness—and When to Seek Help

Picture of Philip Porter, PT, DPT

Philip Porter, PT, DPT

Vestibular & Orthopedic Therapist

Feeling dizzy? You’re not alone.

Dizziness is one of the most common reasons people visit their doctor—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood symptoms. Some describe it as lightheadedness, while others feel the room spinning or a sense of being off-balance. These sensations may come and go or linger longer than expected.

As a physical therapist specializing in vestibular and orthopedic rehab, I help people get to the bottom of dizziness every day. In this post, I’ll break down the most common causes of dizziness and help you know when to seek help.

woman suffering from dizziness

Common Causes of Dizziness

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV):

A mechanical problem in the inner ear. It often causes brief, intense spinning sensations triggered by changes in head position (like rolling over in bed or looking up).

2. Vestibular Hypofunction or Labyrinthitis:

Inflammation or damage to the inner ear’s balance system, often following a viral infection. You may feel a constant sense of imbalance or vertigo, especially when moving.

3. Vestibular Migraine:

Even if you don’t have head pain, migraines can cause bouts of dizziness, light sensitivity, or visual motion sensitivity.

4. Post-Concussion Syndrome:

Dizziness after a head injury can result from issues with the brain, inner ear, or neck—and vestibular therapy can help with all of these.

5. Cervicogenic Dizziness:

Neck stiffness or dysfunction can interfere with the body’s ability to interpret movement and balance signals.

6. Anxiety and Visual Sensitivity:

High stress or visual overload (from screens, busy environments, etc.) can make you feel off-kilter, especially in crowded places.

7. Other Medical Causes:

Dehydration, low blood pressure, or certain medications may also contribute to dizziness.

When Should You See a Vestibular Therapist?

If you’re dealing with:

  • Frequent dizziness or vertigo
  • Imbalance that makes you nervous to walk
  • Symptoms triggered by head movement
  • Dizziness following a concussion or illness
  • A history of falls or near-falls

…then you may benefit from a vestibular physical therapy evaluation.

How I Help as a Vestibular Specialist

I use evidence-based vestibular rehab techniques to reduce dizziness, retrain your balance system, and help you regain confidence in your movement. My approach is tailored to your specific symptoms and diagnosis, and I often work closely with referring physicians, ENTs, and neurologists to ensure you get comprehensive care.

If you’ve been struggling with dizziness, let’s figure out what’s going on—and get you back to feeling steady. Request an appointment to schedule a vestibular evaluation and take the first step toward feeling more balanced and in control.

Picture of Philip Porter

Philip Porter

PT, DPT
Vestibular & Orthopedic Therapist

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