Symplicured

Neurological

Vertigo

Also known as: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and Other Vestibular Disorders

Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when there is no actual movement. The most common type, BPPV, is caused by tiny calcium crystals becoming dislodged in the inner ear. Vertigo can also result from inner ear infections, Meniere's disease, or other vestibular conditions. Most causes are treatable, and many people experience significant improvement with appropriate therapy.

Quick answers about Vertigo

What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when there is no actual movement. The most common type, BPPV, is caused by tiny calcium crystals becoming dislodged in the inner ear. Vertigo can also result from inner ear infections, Meniere's disease, or other vestibular conditions. Most causes are treatable, and many people experience significant improvement with appropriate therapy.
What are the common symptoms of Vertigo?
Common symptoms of vertigo include sensation of spinning or movement when stationary, loss of balance or unsteadiness, nausea and vomiting triggered by head movement, and abnormal rhythmic eye movements (nystagmus). Severity and combination of symptoms vary between individuals, and not everyone with vertigo experiences every symptom.
When should I see a doctor about Vertigo?
Seek immediate medical attention if vertigo is accompanied by a severe headache, double vision, difficulty speaking, weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty walking, as these could indicate a stroke or other serious neurological condition. Also see a doctor if vertigo is recurrent, lasts more than a few days, or is accompanied by hearing loss or ringing in the ear.
Can an AI symptom checker help with Vertigo?
Yes. Symplicured's AI symptom checker can help you triage vertigo symptoms in under five minutes. Describe what you're feeling — by text, voice, or photo — and the AI asks targeted follow-up questions before producing a differential diagnosis reviewed against clinical guidelines by our Medical Review Board. It can also help you decide whether self-care, a telemedicine visit, or in-person urgent care is the right next step. Symplicured is free, works in 18 languages, and does not replace a doctor's evaluation.

Common Symptoms

People with Vertigo often experience the following symptoms.

Sensation of spinning or movement when stationary

Loss of balance or unsteadiness

Nausea and vomiting triggered by head movement

Abnormal rhythmic eye movements (nystagmus)

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Vertigo.

Age over 50 years

History of head injury or ear infections

Prolonged bed rest or inactivity

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if vertigo is accompanied by a severe headache, double vision, difficulty speaking, weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty walking, as these could indicate a stroke or other serious neurological condition. Also see a doctor if vertigo is recurrent, lasts more than a few days, or is accompanied by hearing loss or ringing in the ear.

Think you might have Vertigo?

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Vertigo — Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options | Symplicured | Symplicured