Vertigo is the feeling of dizziness or light-headedness that results from impaired balance and changes in other physiological variables. In most cases, vertigo is considered to be a symptom. Vertigo occurs when the central nervous system (CNS) is bombarded with sensory information from the ears, eyes, muscles and skin pressure receptors. Older people are more prone to experience vertigo, due to the dysfunction of structures within the inner ear and altered visual input. This means that they can lose balance after a sudden movement or a change in posture.
Causes: brain tumour, high or low blood pressure, allergies, diabetes, head injury, inadequate blood supply to the brain, anaemia, viral infection, fever, neurological disease, nutritional deficiency, stress, blockages in the ear canal and middle ear infections.
Symptoms: dizziness, light-headedness, feeling like the room is spinning, hearing loss and nausea.
Who to consult: GP.
