Vertigo

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Vertigo is the sensation of spinning even when you are standing completely still. Your surroundings appear to be moving either vertically or horizontally. Some people feel that they are actually spinning. The effect may be slight and only just noticeable, or it may be so severe that you fall to the ground.

Vertigo is more severe than dizziness, which is often experienced as a feeling of light-headedness when you stand up. Vertigo can make moving around difficult, as the sensation of spinning affects your balance.

Vertigo is often confused with a fear of heights. However, the dizzy feeling when you look down from a high place is not the same as vertigo, which can occur at any time, and may last for many years.

Mild vertigo is very common, and symptoms are not serious. However, recurrent or persistent vertigo could be caused by an underlying condition. You should see your GP to rule out a more serious cause and to get treatment.