What does the medical term "vertigo" describe?

The term "vertigo" specifically refers to a sensation of spinning or a feeling that either the individual or their surroundings are moving when they are not. This condition can lead to significant disorientation and dizziness, akin to the room-spinning sensation described. It is distinct from other forms of dizziness, such as light-headedness or faintness, which may not involve the illusion of movement. Vertigo is often associated with issues in the inner ear, vestibular system, or certain neurological disorders. The clarity in defining vertigo as room-spinning dizziness helps in understanding the condition's underlying causes and impacts on an individual's balance and perception of motion, differentiating it from other related symptoms like loss of balance or severe headaches.