Vertigo

Vertigo is one of the leading reasons for emergency room visits in the United States. Research indicates that around 20-56% of people will experience vertigo at some point in their lives, with its prevalence rising as people age. In this blog, we will explore what vertigo is, delve into its causes and symptoms, discuss the diagnostic process, and outline effective management strategies.

What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is that dizzy, spinning feeling that makes you think you or your surroundings are moving when they aren’t. It’s not a disease on its own; rather, it’s a symptom caused by issues in your inner ear or brain that affect your balance. While various conditions can trigger vertigo, the good news is that there are many effective ways to manage and treat it.

Main Types of Vertigo

Peripheral Vertigo: This is the most common type and usually comes from problems in the inner ear. Conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and Meniere's disease fall into this category.
Central Vertigo: This type is caused by issues in the brain, especially in areas that control balance. Conditions such as migraines or multiple sclerosis can lead to central vertigo.

Common Causes of Vertigo

Knowing what can trigger vertigo might help you identify potential causes. Here are some common reasons people experience it:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
This occurs when tiny crystals in your inner ear get dislodged and move into areas where they shouldn't be. You might feel brief but intense spinning when you change the position of your head. BPPV can often be treated with specific head movements known as the Epley maneuver.
Vestibular Neuritis
This condition involves inflammation of the vestibular nerve, usually due to a viral infection. It can lead to sudden and severe vertigo that might last for several days, often accompanied by nausea and balance issues.
Meniere's Disease
This disorder impacts the inner ear, leading to episodes of vertigo accompanied by hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a sensation of fullness in the ear. It is believed to be linked to an accumulation of fluid in the inner ear, which disrupts normal function and balance.
Migraines
Migraines can sometimes manifest as vertigo. If you have a history of migraines, you may experience episodes of vertigo that coincide with headache symptoms or occur independently.
Head Injuries
Injuries to your head can disrupt balance and lead to vertigo, including concussions or other trauma affecting the inner ear or brain.
Neurological Disorders
Conditions like multiple sclerosis or tumors affecting the brainstem can also cause vertigo as a symptom.

Symptoms of Vertigo

If you’re experiencing vertigo, you may notice symptoms like:

A spinning sensation
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Nausea or vomiting
Difficulty maintaining your balance
Sweating
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, depending on the underlying cause.

How is Vertigo Diagnosed?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of vertigo, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They will likely start with a detailed medical history and may perform a physical examination. Some common diagnostic tests include:

Vestibular Testing: This can include specific maneuvers that help identify conditions like BPPV.
Hearing Tests: Audiometric evaluations help determine if there's any hearing loss associated with your symptoms.
Imaging Studies: In some cases, doctors may recommend an MRI or CT scan to rule out other potential causes, especially if central vertigo is suspected.

Management and Treatment of Vertigo

The treatment for vertigo depends on its cause. Common approaches include:

Epley Maneuver: A series of head and body movements designed to reposition displaced crystals in cases of BPPV.
Medications: Anti-nausea medications or medications to reduce dizziness may be prescribed.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy: A specialized form of physical therapy aimed at improving balance and reducing dizziness.
Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding triggers (like certain head positions), staying hydrated, and managing stress can help minimize episodes.
Surgery: In rare cases where other treatments have failed, surgical options may be considered. Procedures may involve relieving pressure in the inner ear or addressing underlying issues causing vertigo.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience severe or persistent vertigo, especially when accompanied by symptoms like headaches, visual disturbances, difficulty speaking, or weakness, seek medical attention immediately. Your health is a priority, and prompt action is crucial.