Vertigo after exercise: what to know

Hard activity increases demand on circulation, and stopping suddenly can leave some people feeling faint or unsteady. Heat, sweating, inadequate fluids, missed food and breathing too rapidly can intensify dizziness. True spinning, particularly when turning the head or changing position, may be unrelated to fitness and can occur with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Migraine, Meniere's Disease or Middle Ear Infection may also affect balance. A clinician can distinguish spinning from light-headedness by asking what the room feels like, how long it lasts and whether hearing or neurological symptoms occur. See the overview of [Vertigo](/symptoms/vertigo/).

Stop exercising, sit or lie in a cool place, loosen tight clothing and breathe steadily. Sip water when you can swallow normally and have a snack if you exercised without eating. Do not return to training, drive, cycle in traffic or use heights until symptoms have fully settled. Rebuild activity gradually, include a warm-up and cool-down, and avoid exercising alone until the cause is clear. Note the activity, heat, fluids, food, medicines, duration and any palpitations, chest discomfort, headache, nausea or hearing change. Medical assessment may include blood pressure, heart rhythm, ears, eye movements and balance.

Call emergency services for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, a racing or irregular heartbeat that does not settle, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, double vision, confusion, a sudden severe headache, or inability to walk. Seek prompt advice after collapse, a head injury, persistent vomiting or heat illness symptoms. Arrange a review when exercise repeatedly triggers spinning, symptoms occur with modest activity, or dizziness continues after rest and hydration.

Was this spinning or light-headedness, and does the difference change the assessment? Should my heart rhythm, blood pressure, ears or medicines be checked? When can I safely resume exercise? Would the Epley Manoeuvre be relevant if head movement triggers symptoms?