Vertigo explained: what it means and what to do

People may describe spinning, tilting, rocking or being pulled to one side. Nausea, sweating, unsteadiness, ringing in the ear or changes in hearing can occur with it. Brief attacks triggered by rolling over or looking up can fit benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Repeated episodes with ear pressure or hearing change may need assessment for Meniere's disease, while headache or light sensitivity can accompany migraine-related vertigo. An ear infection can disturb balance too. A symptom alone cannot identify the cause.

Sit or lie down in a safe place and keep your head as still as you comfortably can. Move slowly when standing, use support near stairs, and avoid driving, heights or machinery while dizzy. Small sips of water may help if nausea makes drinking difficult. Record what you were doing, how long the spell lasted, hearing symptoms, headache, recent illness and medicines. A clinician can use this pattern to decide whether an examination, hearing check or treatment such as the Epley Manoeuvre is appropriate.

Seek emergency help for vertigo with new weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, fainting, severe imbalance, a sudden severe headache, chest pain or sudden hearing loss. Arrange prompt medical advice when episodes keep returning, last longer than expected, follow a head injury, or come with fever, persistent vomiting, ear discharge or worsening hearing. Do not walk alone if you feel unsafe.

Ask what pattern best fits your symptoms, whether your ears and eye movements need checking, which medicines may worsen dizziness, and whether a balance assessment or positional treatment is suitable.