Sudden Onset Vertigo
Sudden severe vertigo can be a frightening experience. People often describe a sudden spinning sensation that may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting or difficulty maintaining balance. These symptoms can occur due to several vestibular conditions affecting the inner ear. A vestibular physiotherapy assessment can help identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment. See our Vestibular Physio page for a broader overview.
Symptoms such as difficulty speaking or double vision may indicate other medical conditions that require urgent assessment.
Vestibular Neuritis
One possible cause of sudden vertigo is vestibular neuritis, which occurs when the vestibular nerve becomes inflamed, often due to a viral infection. Symptoms may include:
- Sudden spinning dizziness
- Severe nausea
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Dizziness with head movement
Although symptoms can be severe initially, many people recover well with appropriate treatment and vestibular rehabilitation.
Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation uses targeted exercises, balance training and habituation to help the brain adapt and restore balance and confidence after an episode of sudden vertigo.
Book a Vestibular Assessment
If you are experiencing vertigo, dizziness or balance problems, vestibular physiotherapy may help. When booking, select “Initial Physiotherapy Appointment”.
