Vertigo: Causes, Symptoms, Medications, and When to Seek Help

Vertigo: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Vertigo is a type of dizziness that may last for seconds, hours, or even days. Individuals experiencing vertigo often describe a false sensation that their surroundings are spinning, even when they are standing or sitting still. This sensation is commonly accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and loss of balance.

Vertigo itself is not a condition, but rather a symptom. In many cases, there is an underlying medical cause, although the exact cause may not always be identified.

Common Causes of Vertigo

The most frequent cause of vertigo is a problem affecting the inner ear, such as inflammation or infection. The inner ear plays a key role in balance by sending signals to the brain about head position and movement. When this system is disrupted, dizziness and nausea can occur, especially with head movement.

Other inner-ear-related conditions that may cause vertigo include:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) – most common in older adults

• Ménière’s disease

• Inner ear infections or inflammation

• Medication-related ear toxicity

• Motion sickness

Symptoms Associated with Vertigo

• Spinning or rotating sensation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty maintaining balance
• Worsening symptoms with head movement
• Sweating or feeling faint

Medications Used for Vertigo

Doctors may prescribe medications to control vertigo symptoms, particularly nausea and vomiting. Common medication groups include:

• Antihistamines – reduce mild vertigo and nausea by blocking histamine
• Prochlorperazine – blocks dopamine and is often used for more severe nausea and dizziness

These medications are available in various forms, including tablets, liquids, injections, and dissolvable oral tablets placed between the upper gum and lip.

Length of Treatment

Vertigo medications are typically prescribed for short-term use, often between 3 and 14 days. For individuals who experience recurrent vertigo, a doctor may provide a small supply of medication to use if another episode occurs.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Medical assessment is recommended if vertigo:

• Occurs suddenly and severely
• Is accompanied by chest pain, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
• Causes repeated vomiting or inability to walk safely
• Occurs after a head injury
• Persists or worsens over time

Vertigo can increase the risk of falls and injury, particularly in older adults.

First Aid and Training Considerations

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical evaluation or treatment. Persistent or severe dizziness should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Recognizing dizziness, balance loss, and associated symptoms is an important part of first aid training for medical emergencies. St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider, teaches how to recognize and respond to symptoms such as vertigo, fainting, and medical emergencies through its Emergency First Aid and Standard First Aid programs offered nationwide.