Red flags & when to go in person for Balance Problems

Audience: adult

Balance problems can affect your ability to stand, walk, or move safely. They may be caused by many conditions, including inner ear issues, medications, or neurological problems. Telemedicine can help assess mild or stable balance concerns by discussing symptoms and medical history. However, some signs mean you should seek in-person care quickly. Knowing when to get urgent medical attention can help prevent falls or serious complications. This guide explains common red flags, what telemedicine can and cannot do for balance problems, and how to prepare for a virtual visit. It also offers advice on what to do after your telemedicine appointment and answers common questions about balance issues. If you experience sudden or severe symptoms, always seek emergency care immediately. Telemedicine is a helpful tool but is not a substitute for hands-on medical evaluation when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking — seek emergency care immediately.
• Loss of consciousness or fainting — go to the nearest emergency department.
• Severe headache with dizziness or new confusion — get urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild or stable balance problems.
• Medication reviews related to balance issues.
• Providing advice on safety and fall prevention.
• Follow-up consultations for known balance disorders.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency symptoms such as sudden weakness or loss of consciousness.
• Physical examinations requiring hands-on testing.
• Imaging or lab tests that need to be done in person.
• Severe or rapidly worsening neurological symptoms.

Understanding Balance Problems

Balance problems can feel like dizziness, unsteadiness, or a spinning sensation (vertigo). They may result from inner ear infections, dehydration, medication side effects, neurological conditions, or heart problems. Mild or occasional balance issues may be evaluated through telemedicine by reviewing your symptoms and health history.

When to Use Telemedicine for Balance Issues

Telemedicine can be useful for initial assessments, follow-ups, or managing known conditions causing balance problems. It allows you to discuss symptoms, medication use, and lifestyle factors with a healthcare provider remotely. This can help decide if further in-person testing or treatment is needed.

Red Flags That Require In-Person Care

Certain symptoms need urgent or in-person evaluation to prevent serious harm. These include:

If you experience any of these, seek emergency care immediately.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your virtual appointment:

After Your Telemedicine Appointment

Follow your provider's advice carefully. This may include:

Keep a record of your telemedicine visit and any instructions given.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection for your tele-visit.
• Have a family member or friend nearby if possible for support.
• Prepare a detailed list of your symptoms, including onset and frequency.
• List all medications and supplements you are currently taking.
• Note any recent injuries, illnesses, or changes in your health status.
• Be ready to describe your daily activities and any falls or near-falls experienced.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any treatment or safety recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor your symptoms closely and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Schedule in-person appointments or tests if advised by your provider.
• Implement fall prevention strategies at home, such as removing tripping hazards.
• Seek immediate emergency care if you develop red flag symptoms.
• Keep records of your telemedicine visit and any instructions given.

FAQs

What causes balance problems?

Balance problems can be caused by inner ear infections, dehydration, medication side effects, neurological conditions, heart problems, or injuries. Sometimes, simple causes like low blood sugar or fatigue can also affect balance.

Can telemedicine diagnose my balance problem?

Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and medical history to suggest possible causes and next steps. However, some conditions require physical exams or tests that can only be done in person.

When should I go to the emergency room for balance problems?

Go to the emergency room immediately if you experience sudden weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, loss of consciousness, severe headache with dizziness, or new confusion. These symptoms may indicate serious conditions like stroke.

How can I prevent falls if I have balance issues?

To reduce fall risk, keep your home free of clutter and tripping hazards, use assistive devices if recommended, wear sturdy shoes, and ask for help when needed. Your healthcare provider can give personalized advice.

What should I do if my balance problems get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen or you develop any red flag signs, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine is helpful but not a substitute for urgent evaluation when needed.

Sources

1. Balance Problems — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Dizziness and Vertigo — Mayo Clinic.
3. Dizziness and Vertigo: Causes and Diagnosis — National Library of Medicine.
4. When to Seek Emergency Care for Dizziness and Balance Problems — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have emergency symptoms or worsening balance problems, seek immediate medical care.