Giddiness
Giddiness or dizziness are terms used by patients to describe a wide variety of sensations. It is crucial to obtain a precise understanding of the patient’s presenting complaint in order for clinical evaluation to proceed along appropriate lines. Table 1 summarizes the symptoms commonly described as ‘giddiness’.
Table 1 Symptoms commonly described as giddiness
| Symptom | Clinical interpretation | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Feeling of relative movement (usually spinning) of self and environment | Vertigo | Peripheral or central vestibular disturbance |
| Feeling of lightheadedness and impending faintness | Presyncope | See page 44 |
| Feeling of altered awareness and impaired consciousness | Altered consciousness | Consider complex partial seizures, absence attacks |
| Unsteadiness with a clear head | Ataxia | Cerebellar or proprioceptive |
