Vertigo, light-headedness, or dizziness can be a result from a disorder in the peripheral vestibular system or the structures of the inner ear. Causes of vertigo are varied and some causes are unknown. Here are a few possible causes of vertigo:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) – one of the more common forms of dizziness and may be linked to hearing loss and impaired balance
Cogan’s syndrome – inflammation of connective tissue in the cornea- may lead to dizziness, ringing in the ear and hearing loss
Meniere’s disease – ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Ototoxicity – toxins in the ear
Acoustic neuroma – benign growth on vestibular nerve, can cause tinnitus, hearing loss, impaired balance, and dizziness
Vestibular neuritis – inflammation of the inner ear nerves
Anxiety
Common medications that have been linked with contributing to inner ear disturbances and ototoxicity are:
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)
Antidepressants (e.g., clomipramine, amoxapine)
Antihypertensives (e.g., labetalol, enalapril)
Loop diuretics (e.g., bumetanide, furosemide)
Pain relievers (e.g., aspirin)
Prescription and over-the-counter cold medicines
Quinine (e.g., chloroquine, quinidine)
Anti-biotics
If you are taking any of these medications and notice a change in your balance or start to feel lightheaded, call your primary care physician or neurologist to evaluate your symptoms. For more information call us at Mizuta & Associates for more information regarding specialists in the San Diego area.
Links to more information and details related to vertigo signs and symptoms:
http://www.healthcommunities.com/vertigo/causes.shtml
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dizziness/basics/causes/CON-20023004