Every person will have different triggers for their dizziness depending on the type of dizziness they have. However, there are some common activities and scenarios that can make people feel dizzier. The most common trigger is movement. This is usually movement of the head, whether that be turning your head, looking down, or changing positions. Position changes are the main trigger for the most common form of dizziness, BPPV or positional vertigo. Other types of movement can trigger dizziness as well such as visual movement or passive motion.
Visual movement is what happens when you are in a busy environment, with a lot of moving parts. Grocery stores and airports are some of the most common environments where people notice problems with this. Visual movement can also include watching television, especially on a large screen. Visual movement tricks the visual system into thinking that you are also moving which can increase people’s dizziness.
Passive motion encompasses all forms of transportation and things such as elevators and escalators. This can trigger dizziness or motion sickness due to conflicting signals coming from your body, inner ear, and eyes. Lastly, dizziness can be triggered by stress, anxiety, and/or other strong emotions. This is because the vestibular system developed in combination with our flight or fight system because in a stressful situation, it is critical to know where your body and head are in space. This connection works both directions; dizziness can also be a trigger for anxiety.