What should you know about PPPD symptoms and headache?

PPPD describes persistent dizziness or unsteadiness that can become more noticeable when standing, moving or looking at complex scenes. Headache may occur at the same time, but the combination is not specific. Dehydration, heat, viral illness, sinus problems, allergies, anxiety and migraine-type conditions can also cause headache or make dizziness feel worse.

Describe the headache rather than relying on the label alone: note its location, pressure or throbbing quality, light sensitivity, nausea, fever, blocked nose and relation to movement. This helps a clinician separate overlapping patterns and choose the right assessment.

Rest in a quiet, cool place, drink fluids if you can, eat regularly and reduce screen or visual stimulation during an episode. Keep a record of timing, triggers, sleep, heat exposure, medicines and associated dizziness. Use pain relief only as directed on the label or by a clinician, and avoid frequent self-treatment without review.

Book an appointment if headaches recur, dizziness persists, or symptoms interfere with work, walking or sleep. Mention recent colds, nasal symptoms, travel, heat exposure, anxiety and any new medicine.

Seek emergency help for a sudden, severe or rapidly peaking headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, fainting, seizure, confusion, stiff neck with fever, or a new headache after a significant head injury. Get prompt advice for repeated vomiting, severe dehydration, a persistent high fever or a headache that is steadily changing.

Ask whether the headache pattern fits migraine, infection, heat-related illness or another cause, and how it relates to the dizziness. Ask which examination or tests are appropriate and how to manage activity, fluids and pain relief safely.