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Warning-sign checks

Labyrinthitis: 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

    Seek emergency medical help for new vertigo accompanied by possible signs of stroke, including:

    • Facial drooping or weakness on one side
    • Arm or leg weakness or numbness
    • Trouble speaking or understanding speech
    • New double vision or loss of vision
    • A sudden, severe headache
    • Fainting, confusion, or inability to stand unsupported

    Also seek emergency help for vertigo with high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, marked drowsiness, or a new rash.

    These can be signs of a serious infection.

    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

    Arrange urgent, same-day medical assessment if you suddenly lose hearing in one or both ears, even if the ear feels blocked.

    Sudden sensorineural hearing loss can resemble labyrinthitis and treatment may be time-sensitive.[2]

    Urgent assessment is also appropriate if you cannot keep fluids down, have signs of dehydration, develop discharge or severe pain from the ear, or became dizzy after a head injury.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is appropriate if balance is not steadily improving, dizziness continues for several weeks, hearing or tinnitus remains troublesome, or attacks keep returning.

    These situations are not usually emergencies, but further hearing, balance, or neurological assessment may be useful.

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