What to have ready for the call.
Note when the feeling began, what it feels like, how long it lasts, triggers, changes in balance or walking, associated symptoms, current medicines, hydration, and relevant health history.
A callback request gives the clinic a starting point to review the concern. Diagnosis, prescriptions, referrals, laboratory requisitions, documents, payment, and next steps depend on that review; another setting may be recommended.
When an examination, testing, or another setting may be needed.
This guide cannot decide whether it is safe to wait or which care setting is right for an individual concern. Some concerns need an in-person examination, testing, or another setting. If you are unsure where to go, contact an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting for individual guidance. Use prompt in-person care if you are concerned about worsening symptoms.
Know when not to wait.
Seek urgent medical assessment for new or worsening dizziness with fainting, trouble walking, severe headache, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms. Call 911 for sudden facial droop, weakness, trouble speaking, loss of consciousness, or another possible emergency.
Virtual care is not appropriate for every concern. If your symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or may be an emergency, use emergency services or immediate in-person care instead of waiting for a callback.
Common questions about dizziness and lightheadedness.
What should I track about dizziness or lightheadedness?
Include when it began, what the sensation feels like, how long it lasts, triggers, balance or walking changes, associated symptoms, medicines, hydration, and relevant health history.
Can a guide determine the cause of dizziness?
No. Dizziness and lightheadedness have different possible causes and may need an examination, vital signs, neurological assessment, or testing. A clinician decides the appropriate next step.
Where can I find official Alberta dizziness information?
MyHealth Alberta provides current public information about dizziness. It does not identify the cause of an individual concern or replace an appropriate clinical assessment.
Non-emergency request
Request a doctor call today.
For people physically in Alberta with a valid Alberta Health Care card. For requests submitted during open hours, the clinic reviews the request and contacts you about the next step. AlbertaMD operates daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm Mountain Time. For a possible emergency, call 911 rather than waiting for an online request. If your concern cannot wait, use appropriate in-person care; call 911 for a possible emergency.