Vertigo is more than just feeling dizzy—it’s a spinning sensation that can interfere with balance, vision, and overall well-being. Millions of people experience vertigo each year, and while it’s commonly linked to inner ear problems, it can also signal more serious health issues.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for vertigo can help individuals manage it effectively and regain control of their daily lives.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a balance disorder that causes the false sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving. Unlike general dizziness, vertigo is usually triggered by movement and can last from a few seconds to several hours or longer, depending on the cause.
Vertigo itself is not a disease, but a symptom of underlying conditions, particularly those involving the inner ear or the brain.
Common Symptoms of Vertigo
- Spinning sensation
- Loss of balance or unsteadiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
- Headache
- Ringing in the ears or hearing loss (in some cases)
Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo can result from several different conditions, including:
🔹 Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
The most common cause. It happens when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear shift and disrupt balance signals.
🔹 Meniere’s Disease
A disorder caused by fluid buildup in the inner ear, often accompanied by hearing loss and tinnitus.
🔹 Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis
An infection (often viral) that inflames the inner ear or the nerves connecting it to the brain.
🔹 Migrainous Vertigo
People who suffer from migraines may also experience vertigo during or between migraine episodes.
🔹 Stroke or Tumors
Less commonly, vertigo can be a sign of neurological conditions like a stroke or brain tumor.
Diagnosing Vertigo
To diagnose vertigo, doctors may use:
- Physical exams and movement tests (e.g., Dix-Hallpike maneuver)
- Hearing tests
- MRI or CT scans (for neurological causes)
- Blood tests (to rule out infections or other underlying issues)
Treatment Options for Vertigo
Treatment depends on the cause, but may include:
✅ Medications
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Antihistamines (e.g., meclizine)
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Antiemetics for nausea
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Benzodiazepines (for short-term use)
✅ Physical Therapy
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Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) to strengthen balance
✅ Canalith Repositioning Procedures
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Specific head movements (like the Epley maneuver) to move calcium deposits in BPPV
✅ Surgery
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In rare cases, if vertigo is due to tumors or inner ear damage
✅ Lifestyle Modifications
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Avoiding triggers (such as sudden head movements)
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Staying hydrated
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Using support for walking during episodes
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
- Vertigo is sudden or severe
- You experience double vision, speech difficulties, or weakness (possible stroke signs)
- Episodes are frequent and interfere with daily activities
Living with Vertigo
Though vertigo can be distressing, many people manage it successfully with therapy and lifestyle changes. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
