Having vertigo is much different than just a simple bout of dizziness. Dizziness is usually your body’s way of telling you that it needs something! Vertigo, on the other hand, results from an imbalance in your inner ear. Both can cause an unsteadiness, but vertigo symptoms are usually much more intense.

It is important to understand the distinction between dizziness and vertigo in order to seek the right treatment! Our team at AFC Urgent Care Statesville can help you understand your specific symptoms below.

How Do I Know If I Am Just Dizzy?

Dizziness is related to a general feeling of being off-balance. It can make you nauseous if your head is constantly spinning. Being dizzy also can make some daily tasks more dangerous if your center of balance is off.

Usually dizziness is attributed to a problem inside your body! It can be your body’s way of telling you it needs water, food or rest. Usually after addressing these things, you will start to feel better.

Conditions That Cause Dizziness

• Dehydration
• Heat exhaustion
• Low blood sugar or blood pressure
• Iron deficiency anemia

Is Vertigo Much Different Than Dizziness?

While both can make you feel off-balance, vertigo can make you feel like you are spinning or shifting through space. Your whole world shifts underneath your feet and it can feel like your head is swimming anytime you move or change direction.

When you have an inner ear imbalance stemming from a condition like migraines, labyrinthitis and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), it can create these sickening sensations and make simple daily tasks impossible. Many cases of vertigo only last a few seconds to minutes, but if your case lasts days or even weeks, it is important to be seen by a medical professional to rule out a more serious diagnosis.

Vertigo Symptoms

• Intense spinning or world shifting sensations
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
• Motion sickness

If your vertigo becomes severe or is recurrent, you should be evaluated by a medical provider. Drop by AFC Urgent Care Statesville to be seen quickly!