How is vertigo treated?

Treatment is not the same for every spinning sensation. Head-position changes may point toward Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, for which a trained clinician may use a repositioning manoeuvre. Vertigo with fluctuating hearing or ear pressure may require assessment for Meniere's Disease. Migraine-related dizziness may need a migraine plan, while an ear infection may need treatment of the infection. A clinician also considers medicines, vision, blood pressure, nerves, and walking stability.

During an episode, sit or lie down, keep the room well lit, and rise in stages. Clear loose rugs, use handrails, and ask for help on stairs. Do not perform a repositioning exercise from a video if neck or back movement is unsafe or the diagnosis is uncertain. Keep a diary of triggers and symptoms. Your clinician may recommend vestibular exercises, a supervised Epley Manoeuvre, or short-term medicine for nausea or severe spinning; use medicines only as directed.

Get urgent help for new weakness, numbness, speech trouble, fainting, severe headache, new double vision, chest pain, sudden hearing loss, or an inability to stand or walk. Seek prompt review for repeated falls, persistent vomiting, fever with ear pain, or symptoms that are steadily worsening. These warning signs need assessment rather than home treatment.

What is the most likely pattern of my vertigo? Should I have hearing, eye-movement, or balance tests? Would repositioning or vestibular exercises help? Which medicines may worsen drowsiness or falls?