Sudbury Vertigo Risk Score

• This tool should complement, but not replace, a thorough history, physical examination, and clinical judgement.
• If a central cause of vertigo is suspected, obtain emergent neuro-imaging and any other necessary evaluation regardless of the result of this tool.

• Low risk (score <5): 
  
  • Imaging is generally unnecessary if no red-flag features are present.
  • Manage benign causes (e.g., BPPV) and provide symptom relief.
  • Discharge with return precautions, and arrange outpatient follow-up.
• Moderate risk (score 5–8):
  
  • If a peripheral cause is uncertain, obtain MRI (± vascular imaging).
  • Tailor further work-up to clinical suspicion, comorbidities, and social factors.
• High risk (score >8):
  
  • Expedite evaluation and neuroimaging (MRI/A or CT/A) for a central cause of vertigo.
  • Optimize cardiovascular risk factors.
  • Consider admission for further workup and management.

When stroke is a concern, immediately activate your institution’s stroke protocol.