How to Stop Vertigo Symptoms

Vertigo, a form of sudden dizziness causing an individual to feel as if they are moving or spinning when they are not, results from conflicting signals between the brain and the body systems responsible for balance and position-sensing. Common causes include inner ear disorders, ear or head injury, alcohol, certain medications and migraine headaches. Dizziness may be mild or severe, with severe cases leading to falls, difficulty balancing, nausea and vomiting. Depending on symptom severity, vertigo may be managed at home or may require medical treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause of vertigo. Depending on the cause, your doctor may prescribe medication, such as an antibiotic for infections, or an anti-emetic, commonly used to treat symptoms of motion sickness. Your doctor may also recommend a medical procedure, such as vestibular rehabilitation, or surgery to relieve vertigo.

• 2

  Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, your alcohol use and any recent injuries to the head or ear. These factors may cause or worsen vertigo.

• 3

  Take prescribed medications according to your doctor's instructions. Continue taking medications for the entire length of time recommended by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve.

• 4

  Prop yourself up slightly using two or more pillows when lying in bed. Lying flat on your back may worsen vertigo.

• 5

  Move slowly and carefully when experiencing vertigo to avoid falls or other injuries.

• 6

  Sit down immediately or hold onto a steady object, such as a door frame, for support if you start to feel dizzy.

• 7

  Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen within one week of treatment, or if you experience fainting, dehydration, nausea or vomiting.