Dizziness and vertigo: causes, red flags and which doctor to see
Dizziness is a common complaint with many possible causes: from the inner ear to blood pressure and fatigue. A neurologist is a good starting point; if the room spins when you turn your head, an ENT doctor can help — the balance organ is part of the ear.
Common causes
- Benign positional vertigo — short spells when you change head position
- Inner ear problems
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Anemia, lack of sleep, dehydration
- Anxiety and panic states
- Side effects of some medicines
When to seek urgent help
Do not wait for a scheduled visit if you have any of these signs:
- Dizziness with double vision, slurred speech or weakness in an arm/leg — call 103
- Sudden severe dizziness that makes standing impossible
- Dizziness after a head injury
- Severe headache together with dizziness
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
Ambulance: 103 (103 from a mobile) · Unified rescue service: 911
Your specialist
Neurologist
What to bring to the visit
- A description of the spells: when they started, how long they last, what triggers them
- A list of medicines you take
- Blood pressure readings for the past few days, if available
- Results of previous tests and examinations
Frequently asked questions
Neurologist or ENT — how do I choose?
If the spinning starts when you turn your head or lie down, start with an ENT doctor. In other cases, and with any neurological symptoms, start with a neurologist. Choosing "wrong" is fine — the doctors will refer you to each other.
Dizzy and nauseous: what should I do, and when is it urgent?
Sit or lie down so you do not fall, and do not drive. Call 103 if the dizziness is sudden and so severe that you cannot stand, or if it comes with a severe headache, double vision, slurred speech, weakness in an arm/leg or fainting. Without these signs, nausea often comes with inner-ear spells: book an appointment with an ENT doctor or a neurologist.
Dizzy and unsteady when walking: which doctor should I see?
Unsteadiness when walking is a reason to start with a neurologist. If it came on suddenly or together with double vision, slurred speech or weakness in an arm/leg, do not wait for an appointment — call 103.
Can anxiety or “nerves” cause dizziness?
Yes: anxiety and panic states are one possible cause — your head feels “foggy” and you feel unsteady. But a doctor should rule out other causes first, so start with a neurologist; if anxiety is the main problem, a psychotherapist can help.
Can blood pressure cause dizziness?
Yes, blood pressure swings are one possible cause. Measure your blood pressure during a spell and write the numbers down to show the doctor; if it is high or low, start with a general practitioner or a cardiologist, and if it is normal, with a neurologist or an ENT doctor. If the dizziness comes with a severe headache, slurred speech, weakness in an arm/leg or fainting, do not wait for an appointment — call 103.
What tests might be needed?
It usually starts with an examination and simple positional tests. The doctor may then order blood tests, blood pressure monitoring and, if needed, a hearing test or an MRI.
More in “Head and face”
All symptomsThe information on this page is for reference only and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis in person. If your condition worsens, call 103.