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Balance Problems

Ask our expert why you feel dizzy

I feel dizzy and off balance and occasionally have to grab the wall for stability. Is there anything that I can do?
What could be wrong?
What is vertigo?
What causes vertigo?
What if I feel light headed or faint?
What makes me feel off balance?
How are these problems treated?
If I have problems with my balance, how can I help ensure my safety?

Q: I feel dizzy and off balance and occasionally have to grab the wall for stability. Is there anything that I can do?

A: There are many reasons that you may be feeling dizzy, lightheaded, off balance or woozy, so see your family doctor. Your doctor will evaluate you and decide if you need to see a specialist, such as a neurologist, ear-nose-throat (ENT) doctor or a physical therapist.

Q: What could be wrong?

A: Determining what is wrong depends on your exact symptoms, which may include dizziness, feelings of faintness, feeling off balance or vertigo.

Q: What is vertigo?

A: Vertigo is a false sense of motion or spinning. It is often the result of a problem in the inner ear, called a vestibular problem. Abnormalities in the inner ear can cause a sensation of floating or a heavy head, unsteadiness in the dark and make you believe there is motion when there is not.

Q: What causes vertigo?

A: A common type of vertigo is called Benign Paroxsymal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). This can be caused by particles that break off and accumulate in the ear canal. In fact, 40 percent of people over age 65 develop BPPV.

Vertigo also can be caused by inflammation in the inner ear, Meniere’s disease (an excessive buildup of fluid in the inner ear) or a non-cancerous growth on the nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain (acoustic neuroma).

Q: What if I feel light headed or faint?

A: A significant drop in blood pressure may result in lightheadedness or a feeling of faintness. This can occur after sitting up or standing too quickly. It is important to tell your doctor because it can be caused by conditions such as partially blocked arteries, disease of the heart muscle or arrhythmia. Another cause is anxiety.

Q: What makes me feel off balance?

A: Feeling off balance, also called disequilibrium, can be caused by vestibular problems, failing vision or nerve damage in the legs, which is common in older adults. Muscle weakness and osteoarthritis in your hips, knees and ankles also can contribute to loss of balance. Sometimes loss of balance can be a side effect from certain medications, such as seizure drugs, sedatives and tranquilizers.

Q: How are these problems treated?

A: In many cases, vestibular and balance problems can be treated by a physical therapist who will help you with vestibular rehabilitation exercises. These exercises may include repositioning maneuvers or turning your head from side to side while focusing on an object. If you have motion sensitivity, you may need to practice moving in whatever direction makes you feel sick.

In other cases, the underlying cause may need to be treated. For example, treating your blood pressure, heart or blood sugar, or strengthening your muscles to give you more stability.