Warning-sign checks
Vertigo: 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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Call emergency services if vertigo occurs with:
- New weakness, numbness, facial drooping, or trouble speaking
- New double vision, severe loss of coordination, or inability to walk
- A sudden, unusually severe headache or new severe neck pain
- Fainting, chest pain, marked breathing difficulty, or confusion
These symptoms can have several causes, including conditions that need immediate assessment.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen todaySeek same-day medical care for sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear, even if the vertigo improves.
You should also get prompt help after a significant head injury or if repeated vomiting means you cannot keep fluids down.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointmentArrange a routine appointment if episodes keep returning, do not settle, interfere with daily activities, or come with ongoing hearing changes.
An appointment is also appropriate if you are falling or feel unsafe walking.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Vertigo. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.