When to see a doctor

By Mayo Clinic Staff

In general, see your healthcare professional if you have any dizziness or vertigo that:

  • Keeps coming back.
  • Starts suddenly.
  • Disrupts daily life.
  • Lasts a long time.
  • Has no clear cause.

Get emergency medical care if you have new, severe dizziness or vertigo along with any of the following:

  • Pain such as a sudden, severe headache or chest pain.
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
  • Loss of feeling or movement in the arms or legs, stumbling or trouble walking, or loss of feeling or weakness in the face.
  • Trouble breathing.
  • Fainting or seizures.
  • Trouble with the eyes or ears, such as double vision or a sudden change in hearing.
  • Confusion or slurred speech.
  • Ongoing vomiting.

In the meantime, these self-care tips may help:

  • Move slowly. When you stand up from lying down, move slowly. Many people become dizzy if they stand up too quickly. If that happens, sit or lie down until the feeling passes.
  • Drink plenty of fluids. Stay hydrated to help prevent or relieve various types of dizziness.
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol, and don't use tobacco. By restricting blood flow, these substances can make symptoms worse.

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Sept. 26, 2024

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