What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a symptom, not a condition on its own. It happens when the balance system in your inner ear or brain is not working as it should. You may feel as if you are spinning, tilting, or moving even when you are still. Vertigo can affect people of any age and often comes with dizziness or loss of balance.
Symptoms associated with Vertigo
Vertigo can feel different from person to person, and the symptoms often depend on the cause and how severe it is. You may notice:
- A spinning or moving sensation when still – the most common symptom, often described as the room moving around you
- Loss of balance or unsteadiness – you may feel wobbly when walking or standing, which can make daily tasks harder
- Feeling sick or being sick – nausea is common and may come with sudden episodes of vertigo
- Sweating – some people experience cold sweats during an attack
- Uncontrolled eye movements (nystagmus) – the eyes may move quickly from side to side, especially during a severe episode
- Headache or ringing in the ears in some cases – these symptoms may point to specific inner ear conditions such as Ménière’s disease
These symptoms can be worrying, but many causes of vertigo are treatable, and support is available to help you manage them.
Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo can develop for several reasons. Understanding the cause is important because treatment depends on what is found. Common causes include:
- Inner ear conditions – problems in the inner ear are the most frequent cause. These include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), where tiny crystals in the ear move into the wrong place, labyrinthitis, which is an infection of the inner ear, and Ménière’s disease, which can also cause hearing loss and ringing in the ears.
- Problems in the brain – migraines can trigger episodes of vertigo, and in rare cases vertigo may be linked to stroke or other conditions that affect the brain.
- Head injury – damage to the head can affect the balance system and lead to vertigo.
- Other factors – certain medicines, ear infections, or ongoing medical conditions can make vertigo more likely.
- Stress and anxiety – while not a direct cause, they can make symptoms worse or harder to manage.
Because vertigo has many possible causes, an accurate diagnosis is the first step towards finding the right treatment.
How is Vertigo Diagnosed?
Vertigo is usually diagnosed by a GP or specialist who will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may carry out simple balance tests, look at how your eyes move, or check your ears. In some cases, scans or hearing tests may be arranged to rule out other conditions. The process is gentle and designed to understand what is causing your symptoms so that the right treatment can be planned.
Impact on Daily Life
Vertigo can make everyday activities more difficult. You may find it hard to walk steadily, drive safely, or concentrate at work. Some people feel anxious about when the next episode might happen, which can lead to tiredness or stress. In more severe cases, vertigo may increase the risk of falls. With the right care and treatment, many people are able to reduce these effects and regain confidence in daily activities.
What Treatments are there for Vertigo?
Treatment for vertigo depends on the cause. Options may include:
- Physical manoeuvres – specific head and body movements, such as the Epley manoeuvre, can help with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
- Medicines – short-term medicines can ease sickness, nausea, and dizziness during episodes.
- Physiotherapy – balance or vestibular rehabilitation exercises can strengthen your balance system.
- Treatment of underlying conditions – such as antibiotics for an infection or migraine treatment if vertigo is linked to headaches.
- Support and advice – for managing triggers, reducing stress, and making small lifestyle changes that help with recovery.
Treatment is tailored to each person, with the aim of reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
When to Seek Medical Help
You should contact a healthcare professional if:
- Vertigo starts suddenly and is severe
- It comes with hearing loss, double vision, weakness, or difficulty speaking
- Episodes keep returning or last longer than a few days
- It interferes with daily life or work
- It develops after a head injury
Getting help early can ensure that any serious causes are ruled out and that you receive the right treatment.
Why go private with Mid-Ulster Clinic for Your Vertigo Treatment?
Getting the right support for vertigo can make a real difference to your daily life and independence. Choosing private care means you can be seen quickly and receive treatment that is tailored to your needs. Here’s what we offer:
- Fast access to appointments without long waiting times
- Consultations with experienced specialists in balance and ear conditions
- Careful assessment of your symptoms, with further tests if required
- Treatment plans designed around your diagnosis, lifestyle, and health needs
- Support to manage ongoing symptoms and reduce the risk of future episodes
- A calm, private setting where you can talk through your concerns
We’re here to help you feel steadier and more in control. Book an appointment today.
- Medically Reviewed
