US Medical Term · symptoms
Dizziness
Mareo
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Dizziness |
| Spanish (Español) | Mareo |
| Chinese (中文) | 頭暈 |
| Korean (한국어) | 어지러움 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Chóng mặt |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Pagkahilo |
| Portuguese (Português) | Tontura |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | เวียนหัว |
| Japanese (日本語) | めまい |
What it means
A feeling of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or being off-balance without a sense that the room is spinning. It may occur when you stand up too quickly, become dehydrated, skip meals, or take certain medications. Dizziness is also linked to inner ear problems, low blood pressure, anemia, and anxiety. It is usually temporary and not dangerous on its own. However, dizziness that is sudden, severe, or accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, slurred speech, or weakness on one side of the body is a medical emergency — call 911 immediately. Keep a log of episodes to help your doctor identify the cause.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have been feeling dizzy and lightheaded for the past few days.
He estado sintiéndome mareado y con la cabeza ligera durante los últimos días.
The dizziness gets worse when I stand up quickly.
El mareo empeora cuando me paro rápidamente.
I feel unsteady and like I might fall when I walk.
Me siento inestable y como si fuera a caerme cuando camino.
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
R42 Dizziness and giddinessRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026