Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Vestibular neuritis

Vestibular neuritis causes sudden, severe, persistent spinning dizziness due to loss of function in one vestibular nerve. Hearing loss does not fit well, and a stroke must be ruled out quickly when warning signs are present.

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Vestibular neuritis causes sudden, severe, persistent spinning dizziness due to loss of function in one vestibular nerve. Hearing loss does not fit well, and a stroke must be ruled out quickly when warning signs are present.

  • Sudden, severe spinning dizziness that is continuously present and lasts hours to days.
  • Nausea and vomiting, especially when moving the head.
  • Drink small amounts throughout the day if nausea makes drinking difficult.
  • Stand up slowly and use support or assistance to prevent falls.
  • Get in touch the same day for a first episode of sudden spinning dizziness lasting hours.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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Further reading

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VertigoVertigo makes you feel as though you or your surroundings are spinning or moving. The cause is often in the inner ear's balance system, but sudden persistent vertigo with loss of neurological function may be a stroke. The pattern of episodes, hearing symptoms and warning signs determines what assessment is needed.
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Attacks of dizziness during or after migraineVestibular migraine can cause attacks of dizziness, a spinning sensation or loss of balance. Headache may occur before, during or after the attack, or not at all.
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Ménière’s diseaseMénière’s disease is an inner ear condition with attacks of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus and a feeling of fullness in one or both ears. New loss of neurological function, sudden deafness in one ear or dizziness clearly different from previous attacks requires prompt assessment.