Dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems are very common MS symptoms — at least 1 in 3 people with MS will experience vertigo at some point. Vertigo is that unsettling feeling that the room is spinning or that you're completely off-balance, even when you're sitting still.
Many MyMSTeam members know this feeling well. As Show Full Answer
Dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems are very common MS symptoms — at least 1 in 3 people with MS will experience vertigo at some point. Vertigo is that unsettling feeling that the room is spinning or that you're completely off-balance, even when you're sitting still.
Many MyMSTeam members know this feeling well. As one MyMSTeam member shared, "I've been extremely dizzy all day. I'm so dizzy I can't walk straight." Why does MS cause dizziness and vertigo?
MS lesions can form in parts of the brain that control balance and coordination, particularly:
- The brainstem — which connects the inner ear to the brain
- The cerebellum — which helps control balance and movement
When the protective coating (myelin) around nerves in these areas is damaged, dizziness and balance problems can follow. What can make dizziness worse?
- MS flare-ups can intensify dizziness, often alongside numbness, weakness, or double vision
- Some MS medications (like muscle relaxants or anticonvulsants) list dizziness as a side effect
- Dehydration can also be a contributing factor What can help?
If a dizzy spell hits, sitting down immediately is the safest first step to avoid falls. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy — which includes balance retraining and vision exercises — has also helped many people manage these symptoms.
It's always worth talking to your neurologist about new or worsening dizziness so they can pinpoint the cause and tailor a plan for you. When to seek urgent help
Go to the emergency room or call your doctor right away if dizziness comes on suddenly and is accompanied by any of these:
- Chest pain
- Double vision or hearing changes
- Intense headache
- Numbness in arms, legs, or face
- Fainting or seizures
- Trouble breathing or vomiting
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