Department of Otolaryngology Adult Services Dizziness

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Dizziness, vertigo and imbalance

Dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders are some of the most common presenting problems in primary care and emergency care. These symptoms can occur due to many different causes (sometimes in combination), including conditions involving the heart, brain and peripheral nerves, eyes, ears, muscles and joints, and as a result of certain medications. The Dizziness and Balance Clinic at the University of Colorado aims to provide a multispecialty and multidisciplinary team of experts dedicated to helping patients with these symptoms. Our team includes physicians and advanced practice providers specializing in neurology, and otology and neurotology, ophthalmology, primary care, audiologists, and physical therapists.

How to schedule
If you have symptoms of dizziness, imbalance and/or vertigo and are being referred by your PCP, you will be scheduled with a provider in General Ear, Nose and Throat Otolaryngology who will diagnose and treat your condition and make additional referrals if needed.

Call 720-848-2800 to schedule and appointment.

Why is it difficult to determine the cause of dizziness?

Dizziness can have numerous causes. Fortunately, most are not severe or life-threatening, however symptoms can still be very debilitating. The cause can be from the inner ear, the brain and peripheral nerves, the eyes, the cardiovascular system, the musculoskeletal system, or the use of certain medications. Some people have multiple causes of dizziness. Our team is a strong network of providers that are able to narrow down the type of dizziness and provide treatment from the most appropriate provider for that condition.

What is the difference between dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance?

Dizziness is an all-encompassing term. Other words used include lightheadedness, wooziness, floating, imbalance, disequilibrium. Vertigo is the feeling or sensation of motion or spinning when no movement is present. Imbalance is the feeling of being unable to maintain upright posture. These terms are often used interchangeably, though the causes, workup, and treatment of each can be different. This is why we spend time with each patient to gain the best understanding of their symptoms and come up with a plan together on how to move forward.