Neurological Disorders That Cause Dizziness
Sudden or severe dizziness can be a scary symptom when you don’t know what’s causing it. If you experience new or persistent dizziness, don’t ignore it. You can find the diagnostic services you need at Integrated Neurology Services PLLC so you can make the most informed decisions about your health.
Our highly skilled neurology team has extensive experience in diagnosing the root cause of dizziness. We offer complete physical exams, neurological evaluations, and imaging tests in the office to ensure a prompt and accurate diagnosis.
We also provide customized treatment plans that address underlying neurological conditions and prevent dizziness and other symptoms. Our goals are to improve your overall health and lower your risk factors for additional complications.
4 neurological disorders that trigger dizziness
Dizziness describes lightheadedness and feeling like you might faint. You might also experience vertigo, a sensation that the space you’re in is moving or spinning.
While occasional dizziness may be the result of a temporary drop in blood pressure or dehydration, ongoing dizziness may be a warning sign of a neurological disorder. Four of the most common neurologic conditions that contribute to dizziness are:
1. Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is cut off, possibly leading to the death of brain cells. In a small percentage of people, dizziness and vertigo can be a stroke symptom.
2. Migraines
Migraines are a neurological disorder that causes painful, throbbing headaches. The intensity of the headaches can trigger dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and other disruptive symptoms.
3. Multiple sclerosis (MS)
MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that damages your central nervous system. The condition can cause brain lesions, which affect your balance and contribute to ongoing episodes of vertigo and dizziness.
4. Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition that causes symptoms related to uncontrollable movements. The disease itself can cause persistent dizziness, but people who take certain medications for Parkinson’s may also experience dizziness as a side effect.
When to seek a neurological evaluation for dizziness
Schedule a consultation with our neurology team if you have frequent or severe dizziness that prevents you from keeping up with your responsibilities.
We also recommend that you book an evaluation if you have unexplained dizziness that occurs with:
- High fever
- Head, chest, or neck pain
- Difficulty speaking
- Mouth or eye drooping
- Changes in vision or hearing
In the event you experience a fainting episode that results in a head injury or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital emergency room or call 911.
Exploring nonsurgical treatment options for dizziness
Integrated Neurology Services PLLC offers personalized care plans for dizziness and the neurological condition that causes it. Our physicians recommend therapies based on your current health, medical history, and the severity of your dizziness and other symptoms.
Initially, we might recommend lifestyle and diet changes to relieve dizziness. For instance, daily exercise can improve your balance and coordination. You might also need to make dietary changes to regulate your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
In some cases, you might need to take prescription medications to manage chronic neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, migraines, and multiple sclerosis. We also offer on-site stroke prevention and rehabilitation services.
Our team continues to assess your health and the frequency of dizziness and other symptoms during routine follow-up visits. We provide ongoing guidance to ensure you’re living a physically active, high-quality life.
Call the Integrated Neurology Services PLLC office near you today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for dizziness. We have two convenient locations in Alexandria and one each in Lorton and Falls Church, Virginia. You can also use the online feature to request an appointment.