Dizziness

What is Dizziness?

Definition

Dizziness is an umbrella term for balance disorders that manifest as vertigo, swaying, or a feeling of light-headedness. It can be harmless or indicate a more serious condition, and is one of the most common reasons for medical consultation.

Common Causes

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
• Menière's disease (inner ear disorder)
• Vestibular migraine
• Circulatory weakness or low blood pressure
• Cervical spine problems (cervicogenic dizziness)
• Stress and psychological strain

Physiological and Pathological Mechanisms

• Disturbance of the vestibular organ in the inner ear
• Reduced blood flow to the brain
• Conflicting signals between the balance organ, eyes, and proprioception

How Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) understands Dizziness

In TCM, dizziness is often attributed to the Liver and Kidney systems. Ascending Liver Yang, phlegm obstruction, or Qi and Blood deficiency can prevent clear Yang from nourishing the head.

Treatment Principles

Acupuncture

Points such as GB 20, PC 6, ST 40, and KD 3 lower ascending Liver Yang, resolve phlegm, and nourish Qi and Blood.

Tuina Treatment

Treatment of the cervical spine and inner ear region, together with relaxation techniques to normalise blood pressure.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Formulas such as Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin (for Liver Yang) or Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang (for phlegm obstruction).

Lifestyle Adjustments

Adequate fluid intake, stress reduction, avoidance of abrupt postural changes, sufficient sleep.

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Warning Signs

• Dizziness following head trauma
• Sudden severe dizziness with speech or visual disturbances
• Accompanying loss of consciousness or severe headache

When to Contact a Clinic

If sudden dizziness is accompanied by neurological symptoms, call emergency services immediately (rule out stroke).