Vestibular system: How balance works and what to do when you feel dizzy

Feeling unsteady or suddenly dizzy is scary. The vestibular system is the inner-ear network and brain wiring that keeps you upright and steady. When it’s off, you get spinning, floating, nausea, or a sense that the room is moving. This page explains how it works in plain terms and gives useful steps you can try right away.

What the vestibular system actually does

Think of the vestibular system as your body’s internal level. Tiny sensors in the inner ear — the semicircular canals and otolith organs — detect head rotation and movement. Those sensors send signals to your brain and eyes so you can focus, walk, and keep balance. If signals are mismatched (ear says you’re moving but eyes don’t, or vice versa), you feel dizzy or nauseous.

Common causes include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Meniere’s disease, vestibular migraine, or simply dehydration, low blood pressure, or medication side effects. Age and head injuries also raise risk.

Common problems and quick checks you can do

One quick check for BPPV is the Dix‑Hallpike test — but don’t try it if you have neck problems. A safer simple check: sit up straight, lie back quickly with your head turned 45 degrees to one side, and watch if you feel a short burst of spinning. If spinning lasts seconds and happens when you change head position, BPPV is likely.

If dizziness comes with sudden severe headache, fainting, double vision, weakness, or numbness, treat it as an emergency and get medical help now. Those can signal stroke or other serious conditions.

Dehydration and low blood pressure cause lightheadedness. Try sipping water, having a salty snack, and standing slowly. If symptoms ease, your issue may be circulatory, not inner-ear related.

Simple treatments and when to see a doctor

For BPPV, the Epley maneuver is a proven, at-home repositioning move that often stops brief positional vertigo. Look for a trusted video or get a clinician to show you the steps first. Vestibular neuritis and Meniere’s often need meds and follow-up; vestibular migraine may respond to migraine treatments and lifestyle changes.

Vestibular rehabilitation — targeted balance exercises with a trained therapist — helps many people retrain their brain and reduce symptoms. It’s especially useful when dizziness lasts weeks to months.

See a clinician if dizziness is frequent, worsening, or hurting your daily life. Ask for tests like video head impulse, ENG, VEMP, or an MRI if your doctor thinks a deeper problem exists. Proper diagnosis speeds up the right treatment.

Want practical how-tos and reviews? Browse our articles and guides on related treatments and medications at MyOTCStore.com. If you’re unsure about a maneuver or a medicine, check with your healthcare provider first — safe steps matter more than quick fixes.