
Self-care for vertigo
There are some things you can do at home to prevent vertigo:
- Avoid head movements or head positions that can trigger an attack.
- If you find that one side of your ear or head is more affected than the other, avoid sleeping on the affected side.
- Raise your head on two pillows when resting.
- When getting out of bed, do so slowly and sit on the edge of the bed for a minute, before standing up.
Because vertigo can affect your balance and may make you feel unsteady, you are at risk of falls or accidents. To reduce your risk of a fall or accident:
- Get out of a bed or chair slowly.
- Wear low-heeled shoes that fit properly.
- Use handrails on stairs.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom. Don't use towel racks for balance.
- Use a shower stool. Also, apply adhesive strips to the shower or tub floor.
- Use a walking aid if needed.
- Avoid driving until your symptoms subside. If you become dizzy or disoriented while driving, you could hurt yourself and others.
- At work, let your employer know about your symptoms, especially if your job involves operating machinery or climbing ladders.
- Call 111 if you experience vertigo and ANY of the following:
- trouble speaking or swallowing
- leg or arm weakness, numbness or tingling
- a severe headache
- vomiting or feeling very sick
If you are unsure what to do call your GP.
Content shared between HealthInfo Canterbury, KidsHealth and Health Navigator NZ as part of a National Health Content Hub collaborative. Page created May 2020.
Page reference: 707749
Review key: HIVER-17706