Dizziness is a rather vague symptom and so, to diagnose the cause, the physician will attempt to understand the exact nature of the condition.. It is important that patients be specific when describing their symptoms. The physician may wish to know if the dizziness:

• Occurs with different positions or activities (e.g. walking, standing up quickly)
  
  
• Worsens at different times of the day
  
  
• Develops after the use of any medications
  
  
• Is accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea or sensitivity to light
  
  
• Has caused any fainting episodes
  
  
• Has become more severe over time

The physician will ask about the patient’s medical history and review any current medications and psychiatric history. The physician will then give the patient a physical examination. As part of this exam, the physician will examine the ears, eyes and reflexes. Vital statistics, including pulse rate, blood pressure and temperature may also be taken. Based on the results of these tests, the physician may order additional tests that could include:

If any of these tests come back abnormal, the physician may wish to do an electrophysiology study to get a more precise measurement of the heart’s electrical activity and pathways. The physician may also order a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

If the physician rules out cardiovascular causes, other tests may be conducted to discover the cause of the dizziness. These may include a CAT scan of the brain and eye or ear tests. To help diagnosis possible causes, the patient may be referred to medical specialists, such as an otolaryngologist (ear nose and throat doctor) or neurologist.

Once the underlying cause is diagnosed, treatment for that condition or disease may begin. Treatment may include taking or discontinuing certain medications, lifestyle modifications and/or a medical procedure or surgery. Management and treatment is entirely dependent on the cause of the dizziness.

When individuals experience dizziness, certain steps may help reduce the symptoms and prevent possible injury. These can include:

• Sit down or grab hold of a stationary object when dizziness first occurs
  
  
• Avoid actions that may cause dizziness, such as rising too quickly.
  
  
• Keep track of any medications that appear to increase dizziness. Report them to a physician for a possible change in the drug.
  
  
• Avoid excessive use of caffeine or alcohol, which can increase the symptoms.

It is important to follow all of the physician’s recommendations for treating dizziness, including proper use of medications and lifestyle changes. Controlling the underlying condition will, in most cases, prevent or reduce the occurrence of future dizzy spells.