Individuals who experience dizziness are generally advised to sit or lie down immediately and wait for the sensation to pass. They should avoid the use of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco, which can worsen symptoms, and refrain from operating motor vehicles and other heavy machinery.

A physician should be contacted immediately if any of the following occur:

• The person loses consciousness.
• Vision, hearing or speech are impaired or lost.
• There are symptoms such as chest pain, tingling, numbness or weakness in a limb.
• The room appears to spin.
• Dizziness interferes with daily activities.
• Lightheadedness lasts for more than a few days.
• Dizziness occurs after taking a certain medication.

Diagnosing dizziness begins with a medical provider taking a medical history and performing a physical examination. The physician will examine the patient’s eyes, ears and reflexes, and attempt to pinpoint the nature of the dizziness by asking questions such as:

• When did the dizziness begin?
• How often does the dizziness occur?
• Is the dizziness accompanied by other symptoms, such as fainting, nausea or vomiting?
• Does the patient feel as though the room is spinning?
• Is the dizziness interfering with activities?

The physician may recommend additional tests, such as:

• Glucose test. A blood test that identifies abnormal levels of glucose (blood sugar).
  
  
• Other blood work, such as a complete blood count or thyroid blood test.
  
  
• Hearing tests. Identify hearing deficiencies.
  
  
• Cranial CAT scan (computed axial tomography). A type of x-ray test that can identify stroke and brain tumor.
  
  
• Cranial MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). Uses magnets and radio waves to produce images of brain tissues.
  
  
• Electroencephalogram (EEG). Measures brain waves.
  
  
• Echocardiogram. Produces ultrasound images of the heart.
  
  
• Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). Monitors the heart’s electrical activity.
  
  
• Electronystagmogram (ENG). Detects damage to the inner ear and abnormal eye movements.
  
  
• Holter monitor. Instrument worn by the patient records the heart’s electrical activity for 24 consecutive hours.