This brochure is a copy of an American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Public Service Brochure.
Some people describe a balance problem by saying they feel dizzy, lightheaded, unsteady or giddy.
This feeling of imbalance or dysequilibrium, without a sensation of turning or spinning, is sometimes due to an inner ear problem. They often say that they or their surroundings are turning or spinning. Vertigo is frequently due to an inner ear problem. Some people experience nausea and even vomiting when riding in an airplane, automobile, or amusement park ride, and this is called motion sickness. Many people experience motion sickness when riding on a boat or ship, and this is called sea sickness even though it is the same disorder.