Introduction: The Science of Dizziness

Dizziness is a common phenomenon that most of us have experienced at some point in our lives. It is a feeling of being unsteady, lightheaded or spinning, often accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Dizziness can be caused by a variety of factors, including a sudden drop in blood pressure, dehydration, medication side effects, or neurological disorders. However, one of the most common causes of dizziness is spinning or turning round and round. This article will explore the science of giddiness and why we feel dizzy when we spin.

What Happens in Your Inner Ear?

The inner ear plays a crucial role in our sense of balance and orientation. It is composed of three semicircular canals filled with fluid and tiny hair cells that detect changes in head movement. When we spin or turn, the fluid in the canals moves, which stimulates the hair cells to send signals to the brain about the direction and speed of the movement. This information is then processed by the brain and used to adjust our posture and maintain balance. However, when we stop spinning, the fluid in the canals continues to move for a brief period, which can cause a feeling of dizziness or vertigo.