Dizziness is a term that is often used to describe symptoms such as feeling faint, lightheaded, or unsteady. There are four types of dizziness:
* Vestibular system disorders: The vestibular system helps us to maintain balance. This type of dizziness may be accompanied by ringing in the ears and, or, vertigo. Vertigo is the sensation of either spinning around yourself or of having things spin around you.
* Central nervous system disorders: This includes blood clots and bleeding, or spasms in the vessels of the brain. All of these result in decreased oxygen to the brain. This type of dizziness may also be caused by multiple sclerosis.
* Systemic disorders: Heart disease, drug reactions, infection anemia and metabolic disorders may result in dizziness.
* Psychogenic Causes: Hyperventilation or severe anxiety or depression can cause one to feel lightheaded. Up to 20 percent of dizziness may be due to psychological problems.

Occasional attacks of dizziness are normal. Dizziness is often associated with changes in the blood flow to the brain. When the delivery of blood, oxygen, or glucose is impaired, you may feel faint, look pale, and want to sit down. Vision may darken. Rarely, loss of consciousness may occur.

Seek medical evaluation for recurring dizziness. Treatment will vary depending on the cause. Symptoms may subside when the underlying cause is found and treated. Many cases resolve on their own.

Take safety measures if you should feel dizzy. Sit or lie down until it goes away. Do not risk the chance injury from falling. If driving, pull over to the side of the road where you will be safe. Do not operate machinery while dizzy.

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