Understanding Vertigo
Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often caused by problems in the inner ear or parts of the brain that control balance.
Key Fact: Vertigo is a symptom, not a condition itself. The most common cause is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
Common Symptoms
Spinning Sensation
Feeling like you or the room around you is moving or tilting.
Loss of Balance
Trouble standing or walking straight, potentially leading to falls.
Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling sick or throwing up during severe episodes of dizziness.
Tinnitus
Ringing in the ears that sometimes accompanies vertigo symptoms.
Risk Factors
- Inner ear infections (labyrinthitis)
- Head injury
- Meniere's disease
- Migraines
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves testing your eye movements and balance to identify the source of the dizziness.
Dix-Hallpike Maneuver
Vestibular Testing
MRI of the Brain
Hearing Test
Common Treatments
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Epley Maneuver: A series of head movements to move crystals in the inner ear out of sensitive areas.
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Vestibular Rehabilitation: Exercises to help the brain adapt to abnormal balance signals.
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Anti-vertigo Meds: Medications like meclizine to reduce the sensation of spinning and nausea.