Dizziness

Alternate Names : Dizzy, Lightheadedness

How is the symptom diagnosed?

Diagnosing the cause of dizziness starts with a medical history and physical exam. This may be all that is needed to figure out the cause. In other cases, further tests may be needed.

For example, a blood glucose test may be done to look for low blood sugar. Measuring the blood pressure can detect low blood pressure. A special X-ray test, called a cranial CT scan, may be done if a stroke or brain tumor is suspected. A test to measure brain waves, called an electroencephalogram or EEG, may be done if seizures are suspected. Many other tests are possible depending on the suspected cause.