Dizziness

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Diagnosis & Tests

The healthcare professional will review your medical history and perform a physical exam to determine the cause of your dizziness. They will also ask about all medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter products.

You will be asked about your symptoms, including:

  • Pattern, severity, and timing of symptoms

  • Whether you have vertigo, pain, weakness, balance problems, ringing or fullness in the ears, or hearing loss

  • What, if anything, triggers your symptoms

Your healthcare provider will review your medical conditions to determine which ones may be causing dizziness. These may include heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, stroke, or nerve disorders.

Tests may be necessary

  • Dix-Hallpike test. This test helps diagnose Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV) by identifying abnormal side-to-side eye movements. During the test, you will lie back quickly while the healthcare professional turns your head to one side and watches for abnormal eye movements. If these movements are present, BPPV may be the cause.
  • Orthostatic Vital Signs. Your healthcare professional may take blood pressure and pulse measurements in different positions such as laying, sitting and standing. If your blood pressure and pulse demonstrate certain patterns, it may indicate orthostatic hypotension.
  • Blood tests to check for anemia, blood sugar abnormalities, or vitamin deficiencies, and to assess kidney function and levels of certain elements in your blood such as sodium, potassium or calcium.
  • Tests to evaluate heart problems, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) or echocardiogram (an ultrasound video of your heart).
  • X-rays or CT scans

A healthcare professional will ensure that you are receiving the correct treatment. They will review your medications and confirm that the types and doses are appropriate for you. 

If you experience dizziness, ask your healthcare provider to evaluate your risk of falling. They can recommend dietary changes, exercises, or assistive devices to improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.

Evaluation by a Specialist

Depending on the cause of dizziness, you may be referred to a specialist:

  • An Otolaryngologist (ENT, ear/nose/throat specialist) if an ear problem is suspected.
  • A Cardiologist if irregular heart rhythms or other issues with heart function are causing dizziness or imbalance.
  • A Neurologist if there is concern about nerve damage or disorders in the brain, spinal cord, or elsewhere in the body.
  • A Pharmacist to review medications and reduce side effects and interactions that may be causing dizziness.
  • A Physical Therapist who specializes in evaluation and treatment of hearing and balance problems 

 

Last Updated April 2026

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