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Condition guide · NIDCD source

Sudden severe vertigo needs evaluation before it is labeled vestibular neuritis.

Vestibular neuritis involves inflammation of the vestibular nerve and can cause vertigo. Acute dizziness can also have urgent central causes.

The vestibular nerve carries balance information from the inner ear.

NIDCD describes vestibular neuronitis as inflammation of the vestibular nerve that can be caused by a virus and primarily causes vertigo.

A diagnosis depends on the symptom pattern and examination. Hearing symptoms, neurological findings, timing, and triggers can change the differential diagnosis.

Do not use a web page to rule out stroke.

Sudden dizziness or loss of balance with facial droop, arm weakness, speech trouble, vision change, severe headache, or other stroke warning signs requires a 911 call.

Even without those signs, new severe or persistent symptoms warrant timely medical evaluation.

Start with a call or directions—not a medical-history form.

Call (775) 507-2000 to reach the office at 5420 Kietzke Ln, Suite 209, Reno, NV 89511, open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Online appointment scheduling is not available. You can call the office or use the secure contact form on the appointment and contact pages for a general message or callback request. Do not send symptoms, diagnoses, medicines, records, or other health information through the form or ordinary email.

  • Call (775) 507-2000 for current appointment information.
  • Use the directions link to confirm the destination before traveling.
  • For a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency care.

Sources

Primary references used on this page

  1. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: Balance DisordersAccessed 2026-07-14.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Signs and Symptoms of StrokeSource date 2026-05-19. Accessed 2026-07-14.

Next step

Questions about your situation? Start with a call.

The office can talk through scheduling and whether the practice is a fit—please keep health details for the phone call or your visit.

Appointment informationCall (775) 507-2000