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Central vertigo

Medium urgency
-Moderately severe
It is an unreal feeling that our body or the objects around us are spinning. There is also a feeling of instability without nausea, sweating or hearing problems. It is called "central" when the cause is a problem of the brain. It appears and goes away slowly. It is suspected based on the symptoms and neurological examination but a study with imaging tests is required. It is advisable to lie down and rest when vertigo starts, as well as to treat the cause. There are several types of drugs that improve the spinning feeling and these should be indicated by a doctor. It is not a medical emergency but it can be very debilitating. Please consult your GP.
Bibliographic references
  1. Joseph M Furman. Pathophysiology, etiology, and differential diagnosis of vertigo. UpToDate. Jun 03, 2015.
  2. Joseph M Furman, Jason JS Barton. Evaluation of the patient with vertigo. UpToDate. Jun 10, 2015.
  3. Joseph M Furman, Jason JS Barton. Treatment of vertigo. UpToDate. MMay 26, 2015.
  4. Helmchen C, Klinkenstein JC, Krüger A, et al. Structural brain changes following peripheral vestibulo-cochlear lesion may indicate multisensory compensation. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2011; 82:309.
  5. Urbano-Márquez A. Estruch R. Neurología. Generalidades. Vértigos. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 12º edición: 1349-1352.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Spinning sensation

    Loss of balance when walking

    Involuntary, repeated eye movement

    Uncoordinated movements

    Neurological symptoms: impaired speech, physical strength or feeling

Pre-hospital care recommendations

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Lie down in a dark, quiet room.
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