What is Positional Vertigo?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, commonly known as BPPV, is a type of inner ear disorder that can cause sudden, brief episodes of dizziness or vertigo when you change the position of your head (laying down, rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending forward for example). Although BPPV can be unsettling, the good news is that it is typically a benign condition that can be effectively treated and managed.
Causes of BPPV
BPPV occurs when small calcium crystals, known as otoconia, become dislodged from their usual position within the inner ear. These crystals can move into the ear's semicircular canals, which are responsible for detecting head movements and maintaining balance. When these misplaced crystals disrupt the normal fluid movement in the canals, it triggers a false sense of spinning or movement, causing dizziness.
Symptoms of BPPV
The primary symptom of BPPV is sudden and intense dizziness or vertigo that typically occurs with certain head movements, such as rolling over in bed, tilting your head forward, or looking up. This sensation of spinning or whirling usually lasts for a brief period, often less than one minute. In addition to vertigo, individuals with BPPV may experience:
Nausea
Unsteadiness or imbalance
A feeling of lightheadedness
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing BPPV typically involves a detailed medical history, a physical examination, and specific positional tests to induce dizziness. If BPPV is confirmed, a healthcare professional, often an ENT, Audiologist, or Physiotherapist may recommend certain treatments, including:
Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Various maneuvers, such as the Epley Maneuver, the Semont-Liberatory Maneuver, the Lampert 360 roll, or the Gufoni Maneuver, are used to treat different forms of BPPV. These maneuvers help reposition the otoconia in the inner ear and alleviate symptoms of positional vertigo. They consist of a series of specific head and body movements designed to guide the displaced crystals out of a particular semicircular canal and into an area where they no longer cause dizziness.
Home Exercises: Individuals may be taught specific exercises and/or repositioning maneuvers to perform at home to help manage and reduce the symptoms of BPPV.
Medications: In some cases, medication may be prescribed by a medical physician to help alleviate the symptoms of dizziness and nausea associated with BPPV.
Lifestyle Modifications: Making changes in daily activities, such as avoiding rapid head movements or sleeping with the head elevated, can also help manage and prevent BPPV episodes.
Conclusion
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo can be a challenging condition to deal with, but it's important to know that it is manageable and treatable. If you experience symptoms of dizziness or vertigo, particularly during specific head movements, consult a health care professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. With the right assessment and interventions, you can effectively manage BPPV and regain your balance and quality of life.
