By Shreya Tiwari, Vestibular and Balance Physiotherapist
As a vestibular rehabilitation therapist, I’ve seen my fair share of dizzy patients – but one case recently stood out. Not because of the severity of the symptoms, but because of how confidently this client tried to treat himself before ever walking through my door.
Let’s call him Steve.
Steve had been struggling with intermittent dizziness and balance issues for a few weeks. Like so many people today, instead of booking a medical appointment, he turned to the internet – specifically, our good friend Dr Google and the ever-helpful “Chat GP”.
Within minutes, he had a self-diagnosis: BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo). Armed with this newfound “knowledge,” Steve delved into YouTube tutorials, online forums, and blog posts written by people with no clinical background. He followed step-by-step instructions for the Epley Manoeuvre, convinced he’d soon fix himself.
Unfortunately, nothing changed. In fact, things got worse.
When Steve finally came to see me, his spinning sensation was now paired with nausea, fatigue, and growing anxiety. He was frightened, frustrated, and confused – how could something that looked so simple online make him feel so much worse?
After a full vestibular assessment, it turned out that Steve didn’t have BPPV at all. His symptoms were more consistent with vestibular neuritis – a completely different condition that requires a very different treatment approach. The Epley Manoeuvre, which can be highly effective for true BPPV, was not only unhelpful in his case – it likely intensified his symptoms.
The Problem with Self-Diagnosis
It’s easy to see why people turn to the internet for answers. When you’re dizzy or disoriented, you want quick relief – and with so much information available at your fingertips, it’s tempting to trust what you read online.
But dizziness and balance issues are complex. Dozens of possible causes exist, from inner ear inflammation and migraines to cardiovascular or neurological factors. What might look like one condition on Google could, in reality, be something entirely different.
And while AI tools like ChatGPT and Google can provide general information, they can’t assess you in person, perform physical tests, or interpret subtle clinical signs. That’s where trained (human!) professionals come in.
Why Professional Assessment Matters
A proper vestibular assessment includes a detailed history, balance and eye movement tests, and sometimes diagnostic imaging or audiology testing. This helps pinpoint the exact cause of your dizziness and allows for targeted treatment that’s safe and effective.
In Steve’s case, once we identified vestibular neuritis, we started a tailored rehab programme – focusing on gradual movement, balance retraining, and symptom desensitisation. Within a few weeks, his dizziness had reduced, his confidence had returned, and he was finally back to enjoying life again.
The Takeaway
While it’s great that people are taking an active interest in their health, “Dr Google” and “Chat GP(T!)” don’t hold medical degrees. Online information should never replace a professional diagnosis, especially for complex conditions like dizziness and balance disorders.
If you’ve been feeling light-headed, unsteady, or dizzy – don’t go down the rabbit hole of online self-diagnosis. Instead, let us help you find the real cause and get you back on your feet safely.
Book your Free Balance Health Check today and take the first (steady) step towards feeling better.
