Dizziness

What is dizziness?
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Dizziness is a general term used to describe feeling lightheaded, unsteady or as though the room is spinning. It can range from mild imbalance to severe vertigo that affects daily life.

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Dizziness is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. It may be caused by problems in the inner ear, the nervous system, blood pressure, or the balance system.

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With the right assessment and rehabilitation, many causes of dizziness can improve significantly.

What causes dizziness?
 

Dizziness can have many underlying causes.

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Common causes include:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo – BPPV

• Inner ear infections

• Vestibular disorders

• Low blood pressure

• Medication side effects

• Dehydration

• Neurological conditions

• Anxiety

Identifying the cause is important for effective treatment.

What does dizziness feel like?
 

People experiencing dizziness may notice:

• A spinning sensation – vertigo

• Feeling off balance

• Lightheadedness

• Nausea

• Unsteadiness when walking

• Worsening symptoms when turning the head

• Fear of falling

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Symptoms may come and go or be triggered by certain positions.

How can physio help with dizziness?
 

Physiotherapy can be very effective for certain types of dizziness, particularly vestibular problems.

It works by:

• Using repositioning manoeuvres for BPPV

• Improving balance

• Retraining the vestibular system

• Reducing sensitivity to head movements

• Improving confidence in walking

• Reducing falls risk

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Targeted exercises help the brain adapt and compensate.

What treatment will Village Physio do?
 

At Village Physio, we provide personalised, home-based assessment and rehabilitation tailored to your symptoms.

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Treatment may include:

• Vestibular rehabilitation exercises

• Repositioning manoeuvres where appropriate

• Balance training

• Gait retraining

• Gradual exposure to movement triggers

• Advice on pacing and safety

• Falls prevention strategies

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All sessions are one-hour home visits, allowing for safe assessment and rehabilitation in your own home environment.

What can I do to reduce my discomfort whilst I wait for an appointment?
 

• Move slowly when changing position

• Avoid sudden head movements

• Stay hydrated

• Sit down if symptoms increase

• Keep living areas well-lit

• Use support when walking if needed

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If you experience sudden severe headache, chest pain, weakness on one side, slurred speech or new neurological symptoms, seek urgent medical attention.