The dizzy patient

The dizzy patient often presents a challenge to the physician. The history is the most important component of the evaluation of the dizzy patient and often allows the cause of the dizziness to be categorized as peripheral or central. Peripheral causes include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, Meniere's disease, and vestibular neuritis. Central causes include migraine-associated dizziness, postconcussion syndromes, cerebrovascular disease, and multiple sclerosis. Treatment depends on the cause of the dizziness and may include dietary modifications, diuretics, vestibular suppressants, vestibular rehabilitation, or surgical intervention.