There are things you can do to ease vertigo symptoms when they're happening, and to reduce the number of episodes you have.

Do

• lie still in a quiet, dark room to reduce the spinning feeling
• move your head carefully and slowly during daily activities
• sit down straight away when you feel dizzy
• turn on the lights if you get up at night
• use a walking stick if you're at risk of falling
• sleep with your head slightly raised on 2 or more pillows
• get out of bed slowly and sit on the edge of the bed for a while before standing up
• try to relax – anxiety can make vertigo worse

Don't

• do not bend over to pick things up – squat to lower yourself instead
• do not stretch your neck – for example, while reaching up to a high shelf

Most cases of vertigo get better without treatment.

Treatment will depend on the cause. Your GP might prescribe antibiotics if it's caused by an infection.

You could also be given special exercises to do to try to correct your balance.

Antihistamines can sometimes help with vertigo symptoms.

Important

If you drive, you must tell the DVLA about your vertigo.

Visit the GOV.UK website for more information on driving with vertigo.