A to Z of MS Dizziness and vertigo
Dizziness or lightheadness is a common symptom of MS. If the sensation is more severe and gives the feeling that surroundings are spinning, it is referred to as vertigo.
In MS, these symptoms are caused by damage to areas that coordinate perception and response to visual and spatial information.
Treatment for dizziness and vertigo
Treatment can involve physiotherapy, in which a therapist will determine if certain positions of the head make the symptom worse and then work to build up a tolerance to the head being in those positions.
Antihistamine and anti-nausea drugs such as Arlevert (cinnarizine, dimenhydrinate) or betahistine can sometimes help. If the symptom is more severe, steroids can sometimes help.
Although common in MS, there are other unrelated causes of dizziness and the symptom should be assessed by a health professional before starting treatment.
- Find out more
- Vertigo in MS (Open Door article)
- Balance
- Symptoms of MS
MS Trust Information Service
If this information doesn't answer your questions, contact the MS Trust's personal information service on 01462 476700 or by email
