Reviewed by Dr Manuj Agarwal · Last updated 1 September 2026
What is vertigo?
Vertigo is a sensation which can range from feeling off-balance to a spinning sensation. You may feel that you, or the world around you, are spinning. Inner ear problems are a common cause.
What causes vertigo?
- BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo): microscopic calcium carbonate crystals become dislodged in the inner ear.
- Meniere's disease: a build-up of fluid causing vertigo, tinnitus and hearing loss.
- Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis: a viral inner ear infection that inflames the balance nerves.
What are the symptoms?
People with vertigo typically describe feeling:
- Spinning
- Tilting
- Swaying
- Unbalanced
- Pulled in one direction
How is vertigo diagnosed and treated?
Treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. Audiologists identify, diagnose and provide treatment options for patients with vestibular disorders that lead to dizziness and imbalance. Our balance assessment uses videonystagmography (VNG), which tracks eye movement to look for an inner ear cause.
Management may include medication, dietary changes, or vestibular rehabilitation, which uses specific manoeuvres and exercises. Anti-vertigo medications can give relief but may cause drowsiness and increase the risk of falls, so discuss them with your doctor.
We work alongside doctors and physiotherapists, and can pair balance testing with a hearing test when hearing or tinnitus symptoms are involved.
When should I see an audiologist or doctor?
Book an assessment if you have repeated spinning, dizziness or imbalance, or vertigo along with hearing loss or tinnitus.
Frequently asked questions
What does vertigo feel like?
Vertigo can range from feeling off-balance to a spinning sensation. People describe spinning, tilting, swaying, feeling unbalanced or being pulled in one direction. It often feels as though you or your surroundings are moving.
What are the most common causes of vertigo?
Common inner ear causes include BPPV, where tiny crystals become dislodged; Meniere's disease, involving fluid build-up; and vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, a viral inner ear infection. A proper assessment is needed to find which applies.
How does an audiologist assess vertigo?
We use a balance assessment with videonystagmography (VNG), which tracks eye movements to help identify an inner ear cause of dizziness. We then discuss treatment options and coordinate with your doctor or physiotherapist where appropriate.
How is vertigo treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and may include medication, dietary changes or vestibular rehabilitation using specific manoeuvres and exercises. Anti-vertigo medicines can help but may cause drowsiness and raise fall risk, so use them under medical advice.
When is dizziness an emergency?
Seek emergency help if dizziness comes with severe headache, weakness, numbness, facial droop, slurred speech, double vision, trouble walking, chest pain or fainting. Sudden hearing loss with dizziness also needs same-day medical care.
Related information
Balance assessment
Eye-movement testing with videonystagmography to investigate dizziness, vertigo and imbalance.
Learn more →Hearing test
A full diagnostic hearing assessment with results and a clear plan in the same visit.
Learn more →Tinnitus treatment
Assessment and management for ringing, buzzing or hissing that affects focus, sleep or mood.
Learn more →Sudden hearing loss
An abrupt drop in hearing in one or both ears needs prompt medical attention.
Learn more →Book at a clinic near you
Dandenong
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