Dizziness in Primary Care

Prim Care. 2024 Jun;51(2):195-209. doi: 10.1016/j.pop.2023.12.001. Epub 2024 Jan 9.

Abstract

Dizziness is a prevalent symptom in the general population and is among the most common reasons patients present for medical evaluations. This article focuses on high yield information to support primary clinicians in the efficient and effective evaluation and management of dizziness. Key points are as follows: do not anchor on the type of dizziness symptom, do use symptom timing and prior medical history to inform diagnostics probabilities, do evaluate for hallmark examination findings of vestibular disorders, and seek out opportunities to deliver evidence-based interventions particularly the canalith repositioning maneuver and gaze stabilization exercises.

Keywords: Canalith repositioning maneuver; Dizziness; Vertigo; Vestibular.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dizziness* / diagnosis
  • Dizziness* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Primary Health Care*
  • Vestibular Diseases / diagnosis
  • Vestibular Diseases / therapy