Have You Ever Experienced Extreme Dizziness

Have You Ever Experienced Extreme Dizziness

Vertigo is often described as a feeling like the surrounding is spinning or moving; or feeling like being tossed while you are standing still. These symptoms are called ‘vertigo’.  There are various causes of vertigo but the most common one is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).

What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: BBPV happens when a tiny crystal of calcium breaks free from the organs that monitor the body’s movement. As a result of dislodged crystals, the brain triggers vertigo.

Signs & Symptoms of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

• Vertigo prompted by head movements
• Sudden vertigo when lying down
• Some patients may experience vomiting
• The symptom occurs for only 1 minute and gradually disappears
• There is a chance of reoccurrence in the same posture but the severity is not as much as the first time
• The vertigo lasts for several days and will get better in weeks or a month.

Who are at Risks for ‘BPPV?’

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo can be found among population between 30-70 years old, but more common in women older than 50 years old compared to men in the same age by 2:1 ratio.  The symptom can occur with both ears but mostly found in one side of the ears.

Cause of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Possible causes of dislodged otoconia crystal includes accident, a hit against the head, degeneration, inflammation of the inner ear, a surgical history of the middle or inner ear, repetitive head movement such as a bend down and look up position.

Diagnosis and Alternative Treatments

After a thorough medical history interview and check-up, Dix-Hallpike Maneuver test will be done wherein you will turn your head to one side then lie back quickly then the head hangs slightly over the edge of the table. If the test triggers vertigo feeling and eyes’ movement, then the doctor may suggest these following treatments:

• Symptomatic treatment the doctor may prescribe some medicines to ease your vertigo condition with suggestions on postures and activities which trigger vertigo.
• Physical therapy mostly involves head and neck movement to move the lodged crystal back in place.
• Surgical treatment for patients in serious condition and cannot be treated by physical therapy.

Moreover, there are some factors which can trigger vertigo that you should avoid, for example, stress, insufficient sleep, and alcohol consumption.

For more information, contact

ENT Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call 02-7340000 or Ext. 3400
English Hotline: (+66)8-522 38888