Vertigo

Definitions

Self-care

Sit down right away if the sense of spinning or a dizzy feeling comes on. Stay away from any movements that set off the spinning, such as tipping the head up or down.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a health care provider right away if a person has vertigo with any of these symptoms:

  • A new or severe headache, or one that's not the same as usual.
  • Fever.
  • Seeing double or not being able to see well.
  • Not being able to hear well.
  • Trouble talking.
  • Weakness in the leg or arm.
  • Passing out.
  • Falling or trouble walking.
  • Not being able to feel, called numbness, or tingling.

When to make a doctor's appointment

See a health care provider if the vertigo:

  • Keeps going away and coming back.
  • Strikes quickly.
  • Feels severe.
  • Lasts a long time.
  • Happens for no clear reason.