Basic information - symptoms, triggers, duration

[This post gives an overview of vertigo. You will learn symptoms, types of vertigo, and common triggers. You will be able to identify the three types of vertigo and triggers for vertigo. You will be able to discuss what will happen at your appointment with your doctor.]
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Vertigo

There are different types of vertigo but the common symptom is dizziness. Vertigo may be a symptom of another health condition.

Symptoms

You may have some of the common vertigo symptoms. Please see the following infographic:

These are only some of the symptoms. You should discuss your symptoms with your doctor.

Types of vertigo

There are three main types of vertigo. Your doctor will figure out which type you have. Each type of vertigo requires different treatment.

• Rotational, like spinning around or on a merry-go-round
• Imbalance, like when standing on a boat or balance board
• Lightheadedness

(Brandt, Dieterich, & Strupp, 2013, p. 6)

Duration

Vertigo symptoms can last for different amounts of time - sometimes for just a minute. The symptoms may not always last the same amount of time. You may not have any symptoms for a while but they may return later.

It is helpful if you keep track of when you have symptoms and for how long. This information will help your doctor determine which type of vertigo you have and how to treat it.

• Some types of vertigo last for a few seconds, minutes, or hours.
• Other types of vertigo can last for days, weeks, or years

(Brandt, Dieterich, & Strupp, 2013, p. 6)

Triggers

Different types of vertigo can happen at different times. Some activities or sounds can make your symptoms worse. For example:

• When there are sounds
• When you cough
• When you move your head or body a certain way
• When you are resting
• When you are walking
• When you play sports
• When you drink alcohol

(Brandt, Dieterich, & Strupp, 2013, p. 8)

Make an appointment

If your symptoms last for a period of time - more than a week - you should make an appointment with your doctor. There are some symptoms that are more serious. If you are dizzy and have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible:

• You have a new or really bad headache.
• You have trouble hearing or seeing.
• You have trouble talking.
• Your leg or arm goes weak.
• You lose consciousness.
• You fall down or have trouble walking.

(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2017).

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References

Brandt, T., Dieterich, M., & Strupp, M. (2013). Vertigo and Dizziness: Common Complaints. (2nd ed.). London, UK: Springer-Verlag.

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2017). Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Retrieved on June 8, 2017, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vertigo/basics/symptoms/con-20028216.