Giddiness, dizziness, “kong kong” and vertigo – Are they the same?

Feeling off-balance can be confusing, especially with so many different terms and definitions used to describe it.

If you are wondering about the difference between giddiness, dizziness, and vertigo, not to worry—Dr. Gan is here to explain their differences and what you should know.

Giddiness vs. Dizziness vs. Vertigo: Defining the Terms

The terms giddiness and dizziness are often used interchangeably to describe a broad feeling of unsteadiness or a loss of balance. Since individuals may define giddiness differently, it’s crucial to be as specific as possible when describing your symptoms to your doctor.

In his ENT practice, the types of giddiness commonly encountered by Dr Gan are as follows:

1. Vertigo:

Vertigo is a type of giddiness in which patients feel that the room is spinning or they themselves are spinning. It often causes nausea or vomiting, but fortunately, most cases of vertigo are related to issues with the inner ear balance system and not to serious health problems.

Some of the most common causes include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is caused by tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear that dislodge and send incorrect signals to the brain. Vertigo episodes caused by BPPV are triggered by head movements and can be easily treated with an in-clinic manoeuvre.
• Vestibular Neuronitis: An inflammation of the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, vertigo caused by this condition often follows a cold or flu and may be accompanied by a ringing sound in the ear (tinnitus).
• Acute Labyrinthitis: Acute labyrinthitis, a viral infection or inflammation of the inner ear’s balance organ, can cause tinnitus and decreased hearing in one ear, in addition to vertigo.
• Ménière’s Disease: This is a condition where high pressure builds in the inner ear. Patients often describe a feeling of fullness in one ear, followed by a ringing sound and episodes of vertigo.

While many believe that tonsil stones might be a cause of vertigo, they do not directly cause vertigo, as they are located in the throat, not the inner ear’s balance system.

As vertigo can be distressing and significantly impair quality of life, patients who experience this type of giddiness frequently should visit their General Practitioner or an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) Specialist for assessment. If, in addition to vertigo, you have warning symptoms such as slurring of speech, feeling like you might pass out or have weakness in the arms and legs, please visit the Accident and Emergency Department to ensure that a serious health issue is not the cause, as these symptoms could indicate a stroke or another neurological condition.

2. Feeling faint or lightheaded

This is a feeling that you might faint or pass out. This is usually due to a temporary decrease in blood circulation to the brain.

Common causes of feeling faint or lightheaded include:

• Low blood pressure
• Low blood level (anaemia)
• Dehydration
• Medications

More severe conditions that can cause this feeling include:

• Stroke
• Heart disease

If you feel lightheaded, it’s best to first see your General Practitioner for a thorough assessment to determine the cause. If your GP is concerned about a more serious health issue, they may refer you to a Cardiologist (Heart Specialist) or Neurologist (Brain Specialist).

3. Feeling spaced out or drowsy

This type of giddiness is often caused by low blood levels (anaemia), low blood sugar, alcohol consumption, medications, stress, or anxiety. Patients should see their General Practitioner first for a proper assessment.

4. Dysequilibrium

Dysequilibrium is the loss of balance or feeling unsteady while walking. It is common among elderly patients, as the feedback from their eyes, joints, and muscles to the brain has deteriorated.

However, dysequilibrium can also be a problem with the inner ear or a condition in the brain.

For this reason, a General Practitioner should assess such patients first and, if necessary, refer them to an ENT Specialist in Singapore or a neurologist.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Gan Today

If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent symptoms of giddiness, vertigo, or dysequilibrium, don’t wait to seek professional help. As an experienced ENT specialist, Dr. Gan is well-equipped to provide a thorough diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan for giddiness, tonsillitis, as well as sleep apnea in Singapore.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our ENT clinic and take the first step toward regaining your balance.