Dizziness can range from a fleeting, momentary sensation to a severe loss of balance disorder that makes normal functioning impossible. Nearly half of all adults will have an episode of dizziness serious enough to send them to the doctor.

Dizziness generally refers to three specific sensations:

Describing your dizziness as precisely as possible will make it easier for your doctor to diagnose the cause and treat it.

Some causes of dizziness include:

Inner ear problems
Many cases of dizziness are caused by problems that affect the balance mechanism in your inner ear. Examples include:

1. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
2. Ear infection (middle ear)
3. Meniere's disease
4. Motion sickness: First aid

Reduced blood flow
Dizziness can be caused if your brain doesn't receive enough blood. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

1. Arteriosclerosis / atherosclerosis
2. Dehydration
3. Heart arrhythmias
4. Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension)
5. Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

Certain medications
Some types of drugs cause dizziness, including some varieties of:

1. Antidepressants
2. Anti-seizure drugs
3. Drugs to control high blood pressure
4. Sedatives
5. Tranquilizers

Other causes of dizziness

1. Anemia
2. Concussion
3. Generalized anxiety disorder
4. Hypoglycemia
5. Migraine
6. Panic attacks and panic disorder

Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Source: mayoclinic.org

• Move slowly. When you stand up from lying down, move slowly. Many people experience dizziness if they stand up too quickly.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Staying well hydrated can help prevent or relieve several types of dizziness.
• Avoid caffeine and tobacco. By restricting blood flow, these substances can make symptoms worse.

Schedule a doctor's appointment
Call your doctor if your dizziness is accompanied by:

• A new, different or severe headache
• Falling or trouble walking
• Hearing loss

Seek emergency medical care
Dizziness can be a symptom of a serious medical problem, such as a heart attack or a stroke. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the emergency department if your dizziness is associated with:

• Chest pain
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Changes in your vision or speech
• Serious head injury
• Leg or arm weakness
• Loss of consciousness that lasts more than just a few minutes
• Seizures

Source: mayoclinic.org