NHS Direct. Dial 0845 4647. Whenever you need health advice and information.
 

Dizziness in adults

Please select an answer

Is the adult unconscious? 

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In addition to your dizziness, do you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Crushing pain like a tight band around your chest,
  • Pain which moves to your jaw or left arm,
  • Sweating heavily, or
  • Shortness of breath?

Please select an answer

Is there any weakness, numbness or tingling in any of your limbs, has your sight changed, or do you have a severe headache or are you having difficulty speaking properly? 

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Did the dizziness follow a recent blow to the head and it has not gone away?

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Is the dizziness made worse by holding your head in a certain way or moving your head to a certain position?

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Is there pain in the ear, a loss of hearing or a noise which won't go away? 

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Is there fever, are you flushed hot and sweaty (is your temperature over 38°C or 100.4°F)?

Self Care

It is safe to manage this problem yourself at home.

Your answers suggest that you can safely manage your symptoms at home.

Here is some self care advice which you may find helpful:

  • take things very carefully - try not to make sudden movements.
  • the person with dizziness should not drive a vehicle.
  • if the condition gets worse or new symptoms develop, call NHS Direct.
  • if you are still concerned, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

Please review your answers before calling.

You answered no to the following questions:

  • Is the adult unconscious? 
  • In addition to your dizziness, do you have any of the following symptoms: Crushing pain like a tight band around your chest, Pain which moves to your jaw or left arm, Sweating heavily, or Shortness of breath?
  • Is there any weakness, numbness or tingling in any of your limbs, has your sight changed, or do you have a severe headache or are you having difficulty speaking properly? 
  • Did the dizziness follow a recent blow to the head and it has not gone away?
  • Is the dizziness made worse by holding your head in a certain way or moving your head to a certain position?
  • Is there pain in the ear, a loss of hearing or a noise which won't go away? 
  • Is there fever, are you flushed hot and sweaty (is your temperature over 38°C or 100.4°F)?