[Summary of the Dutch College of General Practitioners' practice guideline 'Dizziness']

In the Dutch College of General Practitioners' practice guideline entitled 'Dizziness', a distinction is made between two types of dizziness. The first is vertigo which is characterised by a sense of spinning or movement and which is caused by problems with the vestibular organ. The second is lightheadedness or the feeling that one is going to faint; the cause of this problem is found outside the vestibular organ. In making the diagnosis, history-taking and a limited physical examination is usually sufficient. Providing the patient with information plays an important role in the treatment. Medication for dizziness is not advised. In case of nausea and vomiting, specific medication can be prescribed to treat these symptoms. Referral to secondary care is indicated if there are signs of a serious condition or if additional investigations are required.