What is vertigo? ▶

Vertigo is a sensation of dizziness where you feel like you or your surroundings are spinning. It can be caused by issues in the inner ear, brain, or vestibular system.

What are the common causes of vertigo? ▶

Common causes of vertigo include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Small crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and cause dizziness.
• Meniere's disease: A disorder of the inner ear that can lead to vertigo, ringing in the ears, and hearing loss.
• Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear that can cause vertigo.
• Migraines: Some individuals experience vertigo as part of their migraine symptoms.

How is vertigo diagnosed? ▶

A healthcare provider typically diagnoses vertigo through:

• A physical examination.
• Medical history review.
• Special tests like the Dix-Hallpike maneuver or imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to rule out other conditions.

What treatments are available for vertigo? ▶

Treatments for vertigo include:

• Canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver): For BPPV, this treatment involves repositioning the head to move dislodged crystals back to their proper location.
• Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT): A form of physical therapy that helps improve balance.
• Medications: Antihistamines, anticholinergics, or anti-nausea medications may be prescribed to reduce symptoms.
• Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary for Meniere’s disease or if other treatments don’t work.

Can vertigo be treated without medication? ▶

Yes, many types of vertigo, such as BPPV, can be treated without medication through physical therapy exercises like the Epley maneuver. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) can also help manage symptoms.

Is vertigo a serious condition? ▶

Vertigo itself is not usually life-threatening but can be a symptom of a more serious underlying issue like a stroke or neurological disorder. It’s important to seek medical attention if vertigo is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as vision changes, difficulty walking, or slurred speech.

How long does it take to recover from vertigo? ▶

The duration of recovery depends on the underlying cause. Some individuals experience relief after a single session of canalith repositioning, while others may require ongoing treatment such as physical therapy. Recovery time varies from days to weeks, or longer in chronic cases.