Many conditions can cause dizziness. These include changes in blood pressure, heart problems, strokes, arthritis, ear disorders, and nerve problems. Dizziness may also be caused by medication.
Dizziness may have more than one cause at the same time. These causes are described below.
Orthostatic hypotension
This condition occurs when blood pressure suddenly drops after changing positions, such as moving from sitting to standing. For a short time, the heart does not pump enough blood to the brain and other organs. Symptoms usually begin within three minutes of standing and may last several minutes. A person may feel nauseated, lightheaded, or appear pale.
Examples of conditions that can cause sudden low blood pressure include:
- Dehydration (caused by not drinking enough fluids, illness, or very hot weather)
- Health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, or anemia (low red blood cell levels)
- Certain medications, including diuretics (“water pills”) and blood pressure medications
Ear problems
These include infections and inner ear conditions, such as Ménière disease or benign positional paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV).
Nervous system problems
Examples include stroke, Parkinson’s disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), and migraines.
Medications
Some medications can cause dizziness by affecting the inner ears, including diuretics (water pills) and certain pain medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Other medications that may cause dizziness include anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and antipsychotic medications.
Disequilibrium
Unsteadiness or imbalance when standing or walking can have many causes. These include vitamin B12 deficiency, vision problems, spine problems, nerve pain, and certain tumors.
Last Updated April 2026