I have developed acute severe dizziness when changing positions. Could it be an inner ear infection?

Hello Salharris,

Yes it could be an inner ear problem but it could also be a number of other things.

My advice must be to consult your doctor because some causes of lightheadedness or dizziness can be more serious. Equally some are easily treated.

Quite often an inner ear infection or an imbalance in the ear fluid causes nausea as well.

Below is a link which may help you with information on the causes of dizziness:

Dizziness Information on Healthline

Try not to worry because the cause may be very easily diagnosed and treated but do consult your doctor to make sure.

Good luck and may I wish you the happiest and healthiest 2007

Cy
(Poseidon)

It could also be your blood pressure.

Blood pressure can also cause dizziness when getting up or changing positions. It is called Orthostatic Hypertension, or Postural Hypertension.

You should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.

Some people experience a drop in blood pressure when changing from a recumbent position to an erect one causing a transient giddiness or dizziness. Dizziness can also occur in old age with a sudden head movement, particularly when looking upward.

In the absence of other significant signs or disease, this condition is generally benign. However, heart block can give a syndrome of dizziness or fainting with a sudden change of position, when getting out of bed, or jumping up from a seat.

Other symptoms of heart block are palpitation (an abnormal, often noticeable, increase in heart rate), an occasional missed beat, and a fluttering in the chest. You should consult with your Physician because some of the more serious conditions can lead to lightheadedness include heart problems (such as abnormal heart rhythm or heart attack), stroke, and severe drop in blood pressure (shock).

Hope this answers your question!

REFERENCE(S)

1. 2005. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Benign positional vertigo