At a glance

• Move carefully and reduce falls risks while you are dizzy.
• Use only the repositioning manoeuvre recommended for you.
• Arrange review if symptoms persist, change or return frequently.

Managing symptoms safely

• Sit down promptly if spinning starts and pause before standing or walking.
• Use good lighting, handrails and support from another person if you feel unsteady.
• Avoid driving, heights, ladders or hazardous machinery while symptoms affect balance or vision.
• A brief return of symptoms can occur after treatment; follow the specific advice given by your clinician.

Before trying a manoeuvre

• The correct manoeuvre depends on the affected ear and part of the balance system.
• Ask a clinician or trained physiotherapist to demonstrate it before attempting it at home.
• Neck, back, circulation or eye conditions may make some manoeuvres unsuitable or require modification.

When to book a GP review

• Vertigo is continuous, worsening or no longer clearly triggered by position.
• There is new hearing loss, severe ear pain, fainting or repeated vomiting.
• You have fallen, cannot walk safely or are unsure whether symptoms fit the previous diagnosis.

Follow-up

• Arrange review if the manoeuvre does not help, the diagnosis is uncertain or unsteadiness continues between attacks.
• Reassessment is useful when symptoms recur because the affected side or cause may be different.
• Discuss falls prevention or vestibular physiotherapy if balance remains reduced.

Emergency advice

Call 000 for vertigo with facial droop, arm or leg weakness or numbness, trouble speaking or swallowing, double vision, severe new headache, marked loss of coordination, collapse or another sudden severe symptom.

Rochedale Family Practice is not an emergency service.