Dizziness: Lightheadedness And Vertigo: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Did your lightheadedness or vertigo begin following an injury?

See significance of an injury if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have lightheadedness that is getting worse, but you do not have signs of shock?

Yes

Do you have moderate to severe vertigo following a head injury?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have persistent mild vertigo following a head injury?

Yes

Do you have persistent lightheadedness following an injury?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Have you had mild to moderate vertigo for 24 hours or longer after an ear injury?

Yes

Have you had lightheadedness that comes and goes for 2 to 3 days after an injury?

Yes

Have you had mild persistent vertigo for 2 to 3 days after an injury?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	February 27, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer