Whiplash, “Whiplash Associated Disorders” (WAD), is a condition that carries multiple signs and symptoms. These can range from neck pain and stiffness to headache, confusion, ringing in the ears, and more. But can WAD cause dizziness? Let’s take a look!
Dizziness is a general term that is used rather loosely by the general population. We’ve all experienced dizziness from time to time. It’s considered “normal,” such as standing up too quickly or while experiencing a rough flight.
Often, dizziness and problems with balance go hand in hand. There are three main organs that control our balance. The vestibular system, the cerebellum, and the dorsal columns. In this article, we will primarily focus on the inner ear because, of the three, it’s unique for causing dizziness. Our vision also plays an important role in maintaining balance. We tend to lose our balance much faster when we close our eyes.
It’s appropriate to first discuss the transient, usually short episode of “normal” lightheadedness associated with rising quickly. The typical cause is a momentary drop in blood pressure, and hence, oxygen simply doesn’t reach the brain quickly enough when moving from sitting to standing. Again, this is normal and termed “orthostatic hypotension” (OH).
However, OH can worsen by colds, the flu, allergy flair-ups, when hyperventilating, or at times of increased stress or anxiety. OH also associates with the use of tobacco, alcohol, and/or some medications. Bleeding can represent a more serious cause of OH such as bleeding ulcers or some types of colitis, and less seriously, with menstruation.
BPPV & Dizziness
The term BPPV, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, has to do with the inner ear where our semicircular canals are located. The canals lie in three planes and give us a 3D, 360º perspective about where we are in space. The fluid flowing through these canals bends little hair-like projections. These connect to sensory nerves that tell the brain about our spatial position. If the function of these canals is disturbed, it can mix up the messages the brain receives, thus resulting in dizziness. Exercises are available on the Internet that can help with BPPV (look for Epley’s and Brandt-Daroff’s exercises).
DANGEROUS causes of dizziness include HEART – fainting (passing out) accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, pain or pressure in the back, neck, jaw, upper belly, or in one or both arms, sudden weakness, and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat. STROKE – sudden numbness, paralysis, or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially if only on one side of the body; drooling, slurred speech, short “blackouts,” sudden visual changes, confusion/difficulty speaking, and/or a sudden and severe, “out of the ordinary” headache. CALL 911 (or the number for emergency services if you’re outside the United States) if you suspect you may be having a heart attack or stroke!
