Dizzy

Dizzy is a term that can refer to either a sensation or to people and artistic works that use the name. As an adjective, dizzy describes a feeling of lightheadedness or vertigo, in which a person may feel as if surroundings are spinning or moving. Dizziness is a common symptom with many possible causes, ranging from benign to serious.

Medical dizziness can stem from inner ear disorders such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, Menière’s disease, or labyrinthitis; cardiovascular issues like orthostatic hypotension; dehydration or anemia; side effects of medications; migraines; anxiety or hyperventilation; and other problems affecting balance or blood flow. Symptoms may include spinning or tilting sensations, imbalance, blurred vision, nausea, or a tendency to stumble. Evaluation typically involves a medical history and physical examination, sometimes followed by tests such as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, blood tests, or imaging if neurological or other red flags are present. Treatment focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying cause and may include vestibular rehabilitation, antiemetics for nausea, hydration, lifestyle changes, or adjustments to medications.

In culture, Dizzy is also used as a nickname or stage name. The most prominent figure associated with the name is Dizzy Gillespie (John Birks Gillespie, 1917–1993), an American jazz trumpeter and a leading innovator of bebop, known for his virtuosic playing, distinctive bent horn, and frequent collaborations with Charlie Parker. The name has appeared in song titles and other artistic works, illustrating its cross-domain appeal beyond medicine.