sofidexFor patientsAre you a clinician? Clinical site
Ask Sofi
Listen
Patient SupportEmergencies & Reporting
Log inSign up

Warning-sign checks

Epley maneuver: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for dizziness accompanied by new facial drooping, one-sided weakness, difficulty speaking, severe trouble walking, fainting, chest pain, a sudden severe headache, or loss of vision.

    These are not typical effects of the Epley maneuver or uncomplicated BPPV.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if you develop persistent vomiting, cannot keep fluids down, have new hearing loss, or develop significant neck or back pain after the procedure.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Contact your healthcare team during routine hours if positional vertigo continues after treatment, returns later, or is affecting walking, work, or sleep.

    You may need repeat testing or another maneuver.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Epley maneuver. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.