Vertigo living in adults

Overview

Vertigo is a feeling that you or everything around you is spinning or moving, even when you are still. It is not the same as feeling lightheaded or dizzy, but a specific sensation of motion often linked to inner ear problems or issues with the brain.

Yes, vertigo is common. About 1 in 5 adults will experience vertigo at some point in their lives.

Vertigo can affect adults of any age, but it becomes more common as you get older. People with a history of ear infections, head injury, or migraines are more likely to experience it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A spinning or rocking sensation, as if you are moving or the room is moving
• Feeling off-balance or unsteady
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sweating
• Rapid eye movements (nystagmus) that you cannot control

Symptoms in older adults

• Increased risk of falls due to balance problems
• Anxiety or fear of moving
• May be accompanied by hearing loss or ringing in the ears

Causes

Main causes

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) – tiny crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and cause brief episodes of vertigo with head movement
• Vestibular neuritis – inflammation of the inner ear nerve, often after a viral infection
• Ménière’s disease – a condition of the inner ear that causes vertigo, ringing in the ears, and hearing loss
• Migraine – some migraines can cause vertigo even without a headache
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) – a blood flow problem in the brain that can trigger vertigo

Risk factors

• Age over 50
• Previous head injury
• History of ear infections or inner ear disorders
• Migraine headaches
• Certain medications that can affect balance
• High blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a new, severe headache along with vertigo
• If you have trouble speaking, weakness, or numbness
• If you have chest pain or shortness of breath

Book a routine appointment if:

• If vertigo keeps coming back and affects your daily life
• If you also have hearing loss or ringing in your ears
• If you are worried about the cause of your vertigo

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and do a physical exam. They may also use special tests to see how your eyes and balance respond to movement.

Tests that may be done

• Hearing test (audiometry)
• Videonystagmography (VNG) – a test that tracks eye movements
• Head impulse test – quickly moving your head while watching your eyes
• MRI or CT scan if a brain problem is suspected
• Blood tests to check for infection or other conditions

What to expect at your appointment

You may be referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a neurologist. Diagnosis is often straightforward, and your doctor will explain what is causing your symptoms and how to manage them.

Treatment

Treatment for vertigo depends on the cause. Many cases improve with simple self-care or specific head maneuvers. If an underlying condition is found, treating that condition often helps the vertigo as well.

Self-care at home

• Move slowly and avoid sudden head movements
• Sit or lie down when you feel vertigo starting
• Use a cane or walking aid if you feel unsteady
• Avoid reading or looking at screens during an episode
• Stay hydrated and eat regular meals

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend canalith repositioning maneuvers (a series of head movements) for BPPV. For other causes, they might suggest vestibular rehabilitation therapy (exercises to retrain your balance system). In some cases, medications such as antihistamines or anti-nausea medications may be used to relieve symptoms, but these are generally only for short-term use. Your doctor will choose the approach based on your specific condition.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered for severe Ménière’s disease that does not respond to other treatments, but this is only after thorough evaluation by a specialist.

Living with this condition

Living with vertigo can be challenging, but most people find ways to manage it. Plan your day to avoid triggers, and let family or friends know what you need during an episode. Keep a safe environment at home by removing clutter and securing rugs.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid sudden head movements or looking up high
• Take breaks when you feel tired – fatigue can make vertigo worse
• Learn relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety that may trigger symptoms
• Tell your employer if your work involves driving or operating machinery

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet and regular exercise can help overall health, but if you have Ménière’s disease, your doctor may suggest limiting salt and caffeine. Gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or tai chi can improve balance but stop if you feel dizzy.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Vertigo can cause worry, fear of falling, or anxiety about when the next episode will happen. It is normal to feel stressed. Talk to your doctor if you feel overwhelmed – they can connect you with support. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local crisis support line immediately.

Prevention

Not all causes of vertigo can be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by avoiding head injuries (wear a helmet when cycling or playing contact sports). If you have migraines, managing your triggers may help. Staying active and maintaining good overall health may also lower your chances.

Complications

If left untreated

• Increased risk of falls and injuries
• Long-term balance problems
• Anxiety or depression
• Difficulty doing daily activities like work or driving

Long-term outlook

Most people with vertigo improve with treatment or over time. Even if vertigo is caused by a long-term condition like Ménière’s disease, many people manage well with lifestyle changes and medical support. There is hope and help available.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.