Vertigo: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Vertigo or more broadly described as dizziness in general is a sense of spinning when you are not. The most common cause of vertigo is of inner ear origin although it can be due to less common but more serious issues related to brain or neural pathways as well. Treatments of vertigo therefore depend on establishing the pathology first and varies from medication, repositioning maneuvers or surgery.
Let us take a look at the causes, symptoms and treatment of Vertigo.

Defining Vertigo:

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or the perception that the environment around you is in motion when it’s not. It’s a symptom rather than a standalone condition and can be indicative of various underlying issues.

Causes of Vertigo:

  1. Inner Ear Disorders: Conditions like Meniere’s disease or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) often originate in the inner ear.
  1. Vestibular Migraines: Migraines that are accompanied by vertigo are known as vestibular migraines.
  1. Infections: Viral or bacterial infections affecting the inner ear can cause vertigo.
  1. Medication Side Effects: Certain medications may have vertigo as a side effect.
  1. Head Injuries: Trauma to the head, even if minor, can disrupt the inner ear and lead to vertigo.

Symptoms of Vertigo:

The hallmark symptom of vertigo is the illusion of motion, but it is often accompanied by:

  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Sweating.
  • Abnormal eye movements.
  • Difficulty standing or walking.

Diagnosis and Seeking Medical Attention:

If you experience recurring or severe vertigo, seeking medical attention is crucial. A healthcare professional, often a neurologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, will conduct a comprehensive evaluation. This may include a physical examination, imaging studies, and vestibular function tests to determine the cause. Audiologists who are trained in vestibular evaluation can assist in diagnosing common conditions such as vestibular weakness, BPPV etc.

Treatment Options:

  1. Medication: Medications such as anti-vertigo drugs or anti-nausea medications may be prescribed.
  2. Vestibular Rehabilitation: This involves exercises that help the brain adjust to and compensate for the inner ear imbalance.
  3. Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Particularly effective for BPPV, these maneuvers aim to reposition displaced crystals in the inner ear.
  4. Lifestyle Changes: Dietary changes, stress management, and adequate hydration can help manage vertigo symptoms.
  5. Surgery: In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, surgical interventions may be considered.

Coping Strategies:

Living with vertigo can be challenging, but there are strategies to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being:

  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate vertigo symptoms.
  • Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers, whether they be certain foods, stressors, or specific movements.
  • Create a Safe Environment: Minimize fall risks by ensuring your living space is safe and clutter-free.

Conclusion

Vertigo can come on suddenly without warning. Though vertigo attacks can feel scary, they go away quickly most of the time. If you experience severe or prolonged vertigo, your symptoms could indicate another medical condition. Vertigo can interfere with your quality of life and hinder your ability to do the things you want. No matter which type of vertigo you experience, your healthcare provider can help you identify the root cause and determine personalized treatment based on your needs.