Feeling dizzy or off balance can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. While occasional lightheadedness is normal, frequent episodes of spinning, unsteadiness, or vertigo may indicate a problem in your inner ear or vestibular system the part of your body that helps maintain balance and spatial awareness. What Causes Vertigo and Dizziness Vertigo can occur when the inner ear’s balance mechanisms are disrupted. Common causes include: Inner ear inflammation or infection