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Overview
Spinning is constant for days.
Balance improves over weeks.
When to get medical care
Call 911Spinning with weakness, trouble speaking, or a severe headache.
Get care todayCan't walk or keep fluids down. Hearing loss.
See a doctor soonSymptoms lasting weeks.
Causes
Caused by viral inflammation.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause sudden spinning lasting days, often after a cold. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Vestibular neuritis (inner ear inflammation)Often needs care today
Sudden, severe spinning that lasts days, often after a cold, with nausea and trouble walking.
What you can do at home
- Rest.
- Move slowly.
Medicines
Short-term anti-nausea medicine and balance therapy.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Onset
The exam
An ear and nerve exam.
Tests
- Hearing test
Prevention
Balance therapy.
- Stay active
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.