Vertigo

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or feeling off balance, often described as if the world is moving around you or you are moving within it. It is not the same as lightheadedness or feeling faint, but rather a distinct rotational sensation.

Management strategies for vertigo depend greatly on the identified cause. Approaches may range from specific physical maneuvers (like the Epley maneuver for BPPV) and medication to address symptoms like nausea, to lifestyle adjustments. Some individuals explore complementary approaches such as dietary changes or acupuncture, though their efficacy for specific vertigo types may vary and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

The prognosis for vertigo is highly variable and depends on its cause. Many common forms of vertigo, such as BPPV, may resolve on their own or with effective treatment. However, some conditions causing vertigo may be chronic or recurrent, potentially requiring ongoing management.

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

  Brief, intense episodes of vertigo triggered by specific changes in head position. It's caused by displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear.

• Meniere's Disease

  An inner ear disorder that causes spontaneous episodes of vertigo along with fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.

• Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis

  Inflammation of the inner ear or the nerves connecting the inner ear to the brain, usually due to a viral infection. It causes intense, constant vertigo that can last for days.

• Vestibular Migraine

  Vertigo or dizziness episodes in people with a history of migraines. The vertigo may or may not occur with a headache.