Dizziness is one of those symptoms that’s easy to dismiss — until it stops you in your tracks. Whether you’ve felt the room spinning after standing up too quickly or experienced a sudden wave of unsteadiness that sent you reaching for the wall, you know how unsettling dizziness can be. What many people don’t realize is that not all dizziness is the same. In fact, there are several distinct dizziness disorders, and understanding the difference between them — especially distinguishing vertigo from other types — can make a significant difference in how you find relief. Here at Kingfisher Chiropractic in Bellingham, WA, Dr. Thomas Etue works with patients who are frustrated, confused, and sometimes even frightened by recurring dizziness. You don’t have to stay in the dark about what’s happening in your body.
What Exactly Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is not simply “feeling dizzy” — it’s a specific sensation of spinning or movement when no actual movement is occurring. People with vertigo often describe it as the feeling that either they or the world around them is rotating, tilting, or swaying. It is a symptom, not a diagnosis in itself, and it typically originates from a disturbance in the inner ear or in the brain’s processing of balance signals. Understanding this distinction is the first step toward getting the right kind of help.
What Is Vertigo, Really?
Vertigo has a specific medical meaning that’s worth understanding clearly. The sensation is almost always linked to either the peripheral vestibular system — which includes the inner ear and its fluid-filled canals — or the central nervous system, particularly the cerebellum and brainstem. These two systems work together constantly to help your brain understand where your body is in space. When something disrupts that communication, vertigo can result.
The most common form is called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, or BPPV. In this condition, tiny calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear — called otoliths or “ear rocks” — become dislodged and migrate into the semicircular canals. When your head moves, these crystals send false motion signals to your brain, triggering that characteristic spinning sensation. BPPV tends to be triggered by specific head movements, such as rolling over in bed or tilting your head back.
Another type of vertigo comes from vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, which involves inflammation of the inner ear or the nerve connecting it to the brain, often following a viral illness. Less commonly, vertigo can be a feature of Menière’s disease, which involves fluid pressure changes in the inner ear and may also cause hearing loss and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Central vertigo — originating from the brain itself — is less common but more serious, and can be associated with conditions like migraines, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.
Other Types of Dizziness Disorders
Not every episode of dizziness is vertigo, and this is where confusion often creeps in. There are several other distinct dizziness disorders that feel different and stem from different causes. Recognizing these differences matters because the path to relief varies significantly depending on the underlying issue.
Presyncope is the feeling of lightheadedness or nearly fainting. It’s commonly caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure — often when you stand up quickly — or by dehydration, low blood sugar, or heart rhythm irregularities. People describe it as a “graying out” or a feeling that they’re about to pass out. Unlike vertigo, there’s no spinning involved — just a brief, floaty unsteadiness.
Disequilibrium refers to a general sense of unsteadiness or imbalance, typically felt in the legs and feet rather than in the head. It’s common in older adults and can result from muscle weakness, neuropathy, vision changes, or inner ear degeneration. Sufferers often feel like they might fall but don’t experience a spinning sensation.
Cervicogenic dizziness is another important category — and one that’s particularly relevant to chiropractic care. This type of dizziness is thought to arise from dysfunction in the cervical spine (the neck). The joints and muscles in the upper neck send proprioceptive signals to the brain that help coordinate balance. When these signals are disrupted due to injury, poor posture, or joint dysfunction, a person may experience a vague sense of unsteadiness, especially with neck movement. Here in Bellingham, many patients visiting Kingfisher Chiropractic have had their dizziness traced back, at least in part, to the neck — something that often goes unrecognized by other providers.
Common Causes of Vertigo and Dizziness
Understanding what triggers dizziness can help you and your healthcare provider identify the most likely cause. For true vertigo, the most frequent culprit is BPPV — which can develop spontaneously, after a head injury, or simply with age. Inner ear infections, Menière’s disease, and vestibular migraine are also well-recognized triggers. In rarer cases, vertigo can signal a more serious neurological issue, which is why a thorough evaluation is always worthwhile.
For non-vertigo dizziness, common contributors include cardiovascular issues, dehydration, anemia, anxiety disorders, certain medications, and musculoskeletal problems in the cervical spine. It’s also worth noting that many people experience a combination of factors — for instance, someone might have mild BPPV alongside cervical spine dysfunction, which can make the symptoms feel more intense and persistent than either condition alone would produce.
Stress and anxiety deserve special mention here. The vestibular system is closely connected to the autonomic nervous system, meaning that elevated stress levels can genuinely amplify feelings of dizziness and unsteadiness. This doesn’t mean the dizziness is “all in your head” — it’s a real, physiological response. But it does mean that addressing overall nervous system health is part of a well-rounded approach to care.
Signs, Symptoms, and How to Tell the Difference
One of the most important tools in differentiating vertigo from other dizziness disorders is paying close attention to the quality and timing of your symptoms. Vertigo is typically described as a spinning sensation — either the room is spinning or you feel like you’re spinning. It often comes on suddenly, lasts seconds to minutes (in BPPV), and is strongly triggered by specific head or body positions.
Lightheadedness, by contrast, tends to feel like a floating or “about to faint” sensation. It’s often brief, related to position changes from lying or sitting to standing, and resolves quickly. Disequilibrium typically presents as a more constant sense of poor balance, worsening with walking or in low-light environments. Cervicogenic dizziness is often associated with neck pain or stiffness, and symptoms tend to worsen with sustained neck positions or sudden head turns.
|
Dizziness Type |
Main Sensation |
Common Triggers |
Associated Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Vertigo (BPPV) |
Spinning, rotating |
Head position changes (rolling over, looking up) |
Nausea, nystagmus (eye movement) |
|
Presyncope |
Lightheadedness, near-fainting |
Standing quickly, dehydration, low blood sugar |
Pale skin, sweating, brief blurred vision |
|
Disequilibrium |
Unsteadiness, imbalance |
Walking, poor lighting, fatigue |
Falls, leg weakness, numbness |
|
Cervicogenic Dizziness |
Vague unsteadiness, fogginess |
Neck movement, prolonged desk posture |
Neck pain, headaches, stiffness |
|
Vestibular Migraine |
Spinning or rocking |
Bright lights, noise, certain foods |
Headache, light/sound sensitivity |
How Chiropractic Care Fits Into the Picture
Chiropractic care isn’t typically the first thing people think of when they experience dizziness, but it may be more relevant than you’d expect — particularly for BPPV and cervicogenic dizziness. At Kingfisher Chiropractic in Bellingham, WA, Dr. Thomas Etue takes a thorough, individualized approach to evaluating patients with dizziness, beginning with a careful history and physical assessment to help determine which type of dizziness disorder may be present.
For BPPV, a well-established technique called the Epley Maneuver — or canalith repositioning — has been shown in research to be highly effective at moving dislodged ear crystals back into their proper position, relieving spinning sensations often within just a few sessions. Evidence from the American Academy of Neurology and multiple systematic reviews supports canalith repositioning as a first-line treatment for BPPV. Many chiropractors are trained in this technique and can offer it as a non-invasive, drug-free approach.
For cervicogenic dizziness, chiropractic adjustments targeting the upper cervical spine — along with soft tissue work and postural rehabilitation — aim to restore normal joint movement and improve the accuracy of proprioceptive signals being sent to the brain. Research in this area is still developing, but evidence suggests that manual therapy directed at the cervical spine may help reduce dizziness symptoms in patients where the neck is a contributing factor. Dr. Thomas Etue at Kingfisher Chiropractic will also communicate and collaborate with other healthcare providers when your case calls for it, ensuring you receive well-rounded, coordinated care.
Practical Tips for Managing Dizziness Day to Day
While professional evaluation is essential, there are several practical steps you can take to reduce dizziness in your daily life. These aren’t substitutes for care, but they can meaningfully support your recovery and help you feel more in control.
First, pay attention to how your posture affects your symptoms. Many people in Bellingham spend long hours working at computers or looking down at phones — this “forward head posture” places significant strain on the upper cervical joints and muscles. Gently repositioning your screen to eye level and taking regular movement breaks can reduce cervical spine stress. Try setting a reminder every 30-45 minutes to stand, move your neck gently through its range of motion, and reset your posture.
Staying well-hydrated is another simple but impactful habit. Dehydration can lower blood pressure slightly and contribute to lightheadedness. Aim for consistent water intake throughout the day, especially if you’re active or spending time outdoors in the Pacific Northwest’s warmer months.
If you’ve been diagnosed with BPPV or suspect you have it, avoid making sudden, rapid head movements without guidance from your care provider first. Slow, deliberate movement — especially when getting up from bed — can reduce the chance of triggering a severe episode. Always move to a sitting position before standing, and give yourself a moment to stabilize before walking.
When to See a Chiropractor
If your dizziness is recurring, interfering with your daily activities, or accompanied by neck pain, stiffness, or headaches, it’s a reasonable time to consult with a chiropractor. Cervicogenic dizziness and BPPV are both conditions where chiropractic care has a meaningful role to play, and an evaluation by Dr. Thomas Etue at Kingfisher Chiropractic can help determine whether your symptoms fit that profile.
However, there are also red flags that should prompt you to seek emergency or urgent medical care rather than a chiropractic appointment. These include sudden severe dizziness accompanied by double vision, facial numbness, difficulty swallowing or speaking, severe headache described as “the worst of your life,” loss of coordination, or weakness on one side of the body. These symptoms could indicate a stroke or other serious neurological event and require immediate attention. A chiropractor who is well-trained — like Dr. Thomas Etue — will always refer you promptly if your presentation suggests something beyond the scope of conservative care.
Myths vs. Facts About Vertigo and Dizziness
Myth: Vertigo and dizziness are the same thing.
Fact: Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a spinning sensation. Dizziness is a broader term that includes lightheadedness, imbalance, and unsteadiness — all of which can have very different causes and treatments. Lumping them together can lead to delayed or ineffective care.
Myth: Vertigo is a condition you just have to live with.
Fact: Many cases of vertigo — particularly BPPV — respond very well to treatment, including canalith repositioning techniques performed by trained clinicians. While some conditions like Menière’s disease require ongoing management, it is rarely accurate to say there’s nothing that can be done.
Myth: If you’re dizzy, it must be an inner ear problem.
Fact: While the inner ear is a common source of vertigo, dizziness can also stem from the cervical spine, cardiovascular system, nervous system, or even psychological stress. A thorough evaluation is important to identify the actual cause rather than assuming one origin.
Myth: Chiropractic care is not appropriate for dizziness.
Fact: Chiropractic care has a well-supported role in treating BPPV through canalith repositioning and is increasingly recognized as a potentially helpful approach for cervicogenic dizziness. Evidence indicates that manual therapy directed at the cervical spine can reduce dizziness symptoms in appropriate patients.
Myth: Dizziness in older adults is just a normal part of aging.
Fact: While the prevalence of dizziness does increase with age, it is not something that should simply be accepted without investigation. Many age-related causes of dizziness — including BPPV, medication side effects, and cervical joint degeneration — are treatable or manageable with the right approach.
Final Thoughts from Kingfisher Chiropractic
Living with dizziness can be exhausting and discouraging — especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it or where to turn. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Here in Bellingham, WA, the team at Kingfisher Chiropractic is committed to helping community members understand their symptoms, get accurate information, and find meaningful relief through safe, non-invasive care.
Dr. Thomas Etue approaches dizziness cases with curiosity, thoroughness, and genuine care for each patient’s well-being. Whether your symptoms point toward BPPV, cervicogenic dizziness, or something that warrants a referral to another specialist, you can trust that your concerns will be taken seriously. Dizziness doesn’t have to define your day — or your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor help with vertigo?
Yes, in many cases. Chiropractors trained in vestibular techniques can perform canalith repositioning for BPPV, which research supports as an effective treatment. For cervicogenic dizziness, spinal manipulation and manual therapy directed at the cervical spine may also provide meaningful relief.
How do I know if my dizziness is coming from my neck?
Cervicogenic dizziness is typically associated with neck pain or stiffness and tends to worsen with specific neck movements or positions. If your dizziness comes alongside tension at the base of the skull, headaches, or stiffness after long periods at a desk, the cervical spine may be a contributing factor worth evaluating.
Is vertigo dangerous?
Most vertigo — especially BPPV — is not dangerous in itself, though it can increase the risk of falls. However, vertigo accompanied by neurological symptoms such as sudden severe headache, facial drooping, or limb weakness can indicate a serious condition requiring emergency care.
How long does vertigo usually last?
BPPV episodes typically last seconds to a couple of minutes and are triggered by head position changes. Other forms of vertigo, such as that from vestibular neuritis or Menière’s disease, can last hours. The duration and pattern of your episodes can help your provider identify the likely cause.
Can stress make vertigo worse?
Yes. The vestibular system has close connections with the body’s stress response pathways. Elevated stress and anxiety can amplify dizziness symptoms, making episodes feel more frequent or intense. Addressing overall nervous system health is often an important part of a comprehensive care plan.
What should I do during a vertigo episode?
During an episode, sit or lie down in a safe place and avoid sudden head movements. Focus on a fixed point if possible. Once the episode passes, move slowly and deliberately. Speak with a healthcare provider after your first episode or if episodes are recurring, so the underlying cause can be properly evaluated.
TL;DR — Key Takeaways
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Vertigo is a specific spinning sensation, not a synonym for all dizziness — other types include presyncope, disequilibrium, and cervicogenic dizziness, each with different causes and treatments.
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BPPV is the most common form of vertigo and is caused by dislodged inner ear crystals; it typically responds well to canalith repositioning techniques.
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Cervicogenic dizziness originates from the neck and is an area where chiropractic care may offer meaningful support.
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Red flag symptoms — like sudden severe headache, facial drooping, or one-sided weakness alongside dizziness — require emergency medical evaluation, not a chiropractic visit.
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Dr. Thomas Etue at Kingfisher Chiropractic in Bellingham, WA, evaluates dizziness thoroughly and individualizes care based on the likely underlying cause.
