Neck problems are a common source of pain and a stiff neck and dizziness are a combination that should not be ignored, especially if the symptoms last for a time. Any strain on the neck muscle also affects the muscles in the brain which is why stiff neck is often accompanied by dizziness or headaches. The causes of these symptoms range from an inappropriate sleep position or a pillow that is too soft to a nervous disorder such as multiple sclerosis and tumors. The symptoms, when presented together, are also considered as warning signs for heart attacks.

Other causes of stiff neck and dizziness include abnormal levels of blood pressure, poor circulation due to heart disease or blocked arteries and migraine. If stiff neck and dizziness are accompanied by other symptoms such as high fever, stupor, nausea and vomiting, then the cause may be due to mosquito-carried diseases such as the West Nile Virus. Lyme disease, which is carried by ticks, causes fever, headache, stiff neck and dizziness. These are serious conditions which can be fatal if untreated.

A stiff neck and dizziness when looking up or turning the head accompanied by blackouts is usually a sign that the vertebral arteries are being pinched. The vertebral arteries are the major arteries of the neck which contribute to the supply of blood to the brain. Any manipulation of the spinal or neck vertebrae may lead to a tearing of the arteries near the neck and brain which in turn can lead to a stroke. Neck injuries of this kind may be caused by accidents, sporting injuries or chiropractic adjustments gone wrong.

Light-headedness and discomfort in the neck are among the warning signs of a heart attack. If they are accompanied by pressure; pain or a feeling of fullness in the chest; discomfort in the jaw, arms and back; shortness of breath and nausea, then medical help should be sought as soon as possible. These are warning signs that may come and go or develop slowly but the sooner action is taken, the better the chance that a potential heart attack can be avoided or, at least, not be fatal.

A stiff neck and dizziness may be caused by many conditions and diseases. On their own, they may be treated by a cold or hot compress and an over-the-counter pain reliever. The cause may also be a much more serious one and require more intensive treatment. Medical advice should be sought if the symptoms are recurring or on-going or if there is the slightest concern that the cause is more than a slight muscle strain.