It is common that in our daily life we ​​confuse terms such as dizziness y dizzinessAlthough they are often used interchangeably, these are two very different conditions, both in terms of symptoms and causes. While both can cause discomfort and affect our quality of life, it is important to differentiate between them in order to find the right treatment. In this article, we will detail their differences, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What are vertigo and dizziness?
The dizziness are a feeling of dizziness or fainting that may be accompanied by a feeling of unsteadiness. In contrast, dizziness They are characterized by the illusory perception of movement, as if the environment were rotating around us or vice versa. This essential difference in the nature of perception is key to understanding both terms.
The origin of dizziness and dizziness
El Vertigo It usually originates in the vestibular system, located in the inner ear, responsible for controlling body balance. The most common conditions include:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): Caused by specific head movements that affect small crystals in the inner ear.
- Ménière's disease: It produces fluid accumulation in the inner ear, causing vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Vestibular neuronitis: Inflammation of the vestibular nerve due to viral infections.
Furthermore, the dizziness They have varied origins, such as:
- Low blood pressure: Especially after sudden movements.
- Dehydration or hypoglycemia: When the brain does not receive enough oxygen or glucose.
- Cervical problems: Muscle contractures in the neck area.
- Anxiety or stress: Psychological factors that affect balance.
Common symptoms of vertigo and dizziness
While they may seem similar, the symptoms Both conditions have their own characteristics. Some of the most notable are:
Vertigo symptoms
- Feeling like everything is spinning around you.
- Nausea, vomiting and cold sweats.
- Difficulty maintaining balance and walking.
- Involuntary eye movement (nystagmus).
Symptoms of dizziness
- Dizziness and fainting.
- Feeling of weakness or instability.
- Cloudy vision or blurred vision.
- Paleness and feeling of faintness.
Episode length
La duration of the episodes also marks an important difference between dizziness and vertigo:
- mareos: They are usually brief and disappear within seconds or minutes. However, they may recur if the underlying cause is not addressed.
- Vertigo: Episodes can last from minutes to several hours. In addition, the feeling of malaise can last for days due to the "hangover" of the episode.
What to do in the event of an episode?
The way to act will depend on whether it is a Vertigo or dizziness:
In case of dizziness
- Finding a safe place to sit or lie down.
- Place your head between your legs to improve circulation.
- Hydration: Drink water if you suspect dehydration is the cause.
In case of vertigo
- Avoid shaking your head abruptly.
- Focus your vision on a fixed point to reduce the sensation of spinning.
- Consult a doctor if episodes are frequent or disabling.
Available Treatments
El treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis:
- Vertigo: Prescription medications such as meclizine or betahistine, maneuvers such as the Dix-Hallpike to reposition the crystals of the inner ear, and in severe cases, vestibular rehabilitation.
- mareos: Rest, hydration, and treatment of the root cause, such as adjusting diet in case of hypoglycemia or practicing drill to relieve cervical contractures.
Proper identification between dizziness y dizziness It is essential to find an effective solution. If you think your symptoms persist, see a specialist. Understanding the differences and acting in time can improve your quality of life.