PPPD (persistent dizziness)

Overview

PPPD often starts after a bout of vertigo, a concussion, or a panic attack.

Dizziness is worse when upright, moving, or in busy places like stores.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Ongoing dizziness

Less common

• Feeling unsteady

When to get medical care

Causes

Brain adaptation.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Anxiety

Diagnosis

Diagnosis by history.

Treatment

Retrain balance.

Self-care

• Vestibular therapy
• Do vestibular rehab exercises
• Gradually return to busy places

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults 30 to 50: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Improves.

Most people improve with therapy.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Could vestibular therapy help?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on PPPD (persistent dizziness)