Does a GP consultation treat benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

BPPV causes brief spinning episodes brought on by movements such as turning in bed, looking up, or bending down. The GP will ask what triggers the dizziness, how long each episode lasts, and whether there are hearing, neurological, or balance symptoms. They may perform a positional test while observing eye movements. If the pattern fits BPPV, moving the head and body through a sequence can help return displaced inner-ear particles to a less troublesome position. Some people are referred for vestibular assessment or physiotherapy.

Move slowly when getting up, use support if you feel unsteady, and avoid driving or working at height while spinning is unpredictable. Record the movements that trigger symptoms and any hearing change, headache, weakness, or faintness. Do not attempt a manoeuvre from an online guide if you have neck or back problems, vascular disease, or uncertainty about the diagnosis; ask a clinician to show you the appropriate technique.

Seek emergency help for dizziness with facial drooping, limb weakness, trouble speaking, severe new headache, fainting, chest pain, or inability to walk. Arrange prompt assessment for continuous vertigo, new hearing loss, repeated vomiting, or symptoms after a head injury. These patterns need a broader assessment than typical position-triggered BPPV.

Ask whether your symptoms fit BPPV, whether a repositioning manoeuvre is suitable, and what movements to avoid temporarily. Ask when to return if spinning continues and whether you need balance exercises or referral.