A GP has advised people not to self-medicate for dizziness, stressing the importance of seeing a doctor to determine the underlying cause. Dr Raj Arora, a GP and TV doctor, said that while over-the-counter remedies may seem like a quick fix, they can mask serious conditions such as stroke, heart attack, or neurological issues.
Dr Arora acknowledged that dizziness can stem from less worrying causes like vertigo or a common cold, but emphasised that self-diagnosis is not recommended. “Make sure you’re seeing your GP, because lots of different things can cause dizzy spells,” she said. “Diagnosing yourself with dizzy spells and then trying to manage it is something I would not recommend.”
The NHS notes that dizziness often resolves on its own or after treatment for an underlying condition, such as postural hypotension, inner ear problems, labyrinthitis, or side effects from medication. However, if dizziness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like hearing loss or ringing in the ears, a GP appointment is advised.
Dr Arora urged the public to “get answers” rather than self-diagnose, adding: “Masking it without knowing the cause can delay the help you actually need.”
