What term is used for the sensation of spinning or whirling that can result from a lack of balance?

The term that specifically describes the sensation of spinning or whirling is "vertigo." This condition is often linked to problems in the inner ear or the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. When a person experiences vertigo, they may feel as if they, or their surroundings, are moving when in fact they are stationary. This can be disorienting and often accompanies other symptoms such as nausea or difficulties with stability.

In contrast, while dizziness and lightheadedness can also describe feelings of unsteadiness or altered awareness, they do not specifically denote the spinning sensation characteristic of vertigo. Dizziness is a broader term that can encompass various sensations, including lightheadedness, which is typically a feeling of faintness or queasiness rather than true spinning. The term "illusion" is more general and does not specifically relate to the balance and spatial orientation issues associated with vertigo. The distinct definition of vertigo makes it the correct choice in this context for describing spinning sensations and balance disturbances.