Types of dizziness and balance disorders

Vertigo: A sensation as if the external world is revolving around you or as if you are revolving in space. A sense of spinning even while standing/sitting still.

Dizziness: A disturbed sense in relation to the world around you, it is a sensation of unsteadiness with a feeling of movement with the head, giddiness, lightheadedness.

Disequilibrium: A sense of unsteadiness or imbalance typically exacerbated by movement or environmental influences.

Causes of dizziness and balance disorders

There are several causes of vertigo, dizziness and/or balance disorders and the exact cause can only be determined by an extensive evaluation by an audiologist, ear nose and throat (ENT) specialist and / or neurologist.

Generally, vertigo or dizziness are cause either by the ear and/or nerves (peripheral system) or by central disorders. Other causes include medical disorders, infections, anemia, diabetes mellitus, psychiatric disorders or drugs.

Some general causes include:

Peripheral vestibular vertigo: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis.

Central vestibular vertigo: Tumors, strokes, multiple sclerosis, migraine

What our clients say

“I would recommend the Dizziness & Hearing Clinic to anyone for the personal attention, warm and understanding atmosphere and professional, caring and quality service. Hendrika de Clercq is a warm well qualified and experienced audiologist who is concerned about her patients, really loves her field and her work and gives back to the community. She is a dedicated and inspirational community builder and facilitator”