Do you also feel like the world is spinning? Let's talk about 'Vertigo'!

Imagine getting out of bed in the morning, or turning over in bed, and suddenly feeling like the whole room is spinning around you... as if you've lost your balance and are out of control. This is an experience that most people have had at least once in their lives. This sudden dizziness is medically known as 'Vertigo'. Although it can be a scary experience, most of the time it's not caused by anything serious. Let's talk about it in simple terms today.

Simply put, what is 'Vertigo'?

Vertigo is not really a disease, but a symptom. That is, it occurs as a result of another health problem in our body. Simply put, Vertigo is the sensation that you or the environment around you is moving or spinning, even when you are still. This is caused by a malfunction in the system that controls our body's balance.

What other symptoms come with Vertigo?

Vertigo is not just dizziness, but can also be accompanied by several other symptoms.

There are two main types of vertigo:

Vertigo can be divided into two main types depending on where it occurs.

Peripheral Vertigo: A Problem Inside the Ear

This is the most common type . It is caused by a problem with the inner ear or the vestibular nerve, which helps control our body's balance. Some of the main conditions that fall under this category are:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is the most common cause of vertigo. When tiny calcium crystals (canaliths) in our inner ear become dislodged from their proper place, dizziness occurs, especially when we turn or tilt our heads suddenly.
• Labyrinthitis and Vestibular Neuritis: Infections or inflammation of the inner ear.
• Ménière's disease: A condition caused by increased fluid pressure in the inner ear.

Central Vertigo: A Brain-Related Problem

This type is less common, but can be more serious . It is caused by a problem affecting a part of the brain. For example, this type of vertigo can be caused by things like stroke, brain infection, serious head injuries, or tumors. The symptoms are usually more severe.

What are other causes of vertigo?

In addition to the main causes mentioned above, a number of other factors can contribute to the occurrence of Vertigo.

The table below shows some common causes that can affect Vertigo:

How does a doctor diagnose vertigo?

When you go to a doctor, he or she will first ask you about your symptoms in detail. This means when the dizziness starts, how long it has been going on, and what other symptoms you are experiencing. Then, they will perform a physical examination and, if necessary, may order some other tests to find the exact cause.

• Head Impulse Test: Your doctor will ask you to look at one spot while slowly turning your head from side to side. The way your eyes move during this time can help determine if there is a problem with the balance system in your inner ear.
• Romberg's Test: You are asked to stand upright with your eyes closed and your legs together. If you lose your balance, it could be a problem with your brain or spinal cord.
• Imaging Tests: Sometimes, especially if central vertigo is suspected, a CT (Computed Tomography) scan or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be recommended.

What are the treatments for Vertigo?

Vertigo is treated depending on its underlying cause.

Repositioning Maneuvers

This is the most effective treatment for vertigo caused by BPPV.Using specific techniques like the Epley maneuver , your doctor moves your head and body in a specific pattern to help move calcium deposits back into place in your inner ear. This can provide immediate relief. Your doctor can also show you how to do this at home.

Medication

Some types of vertigo, especially those that are sudden and severe, can be treated with medication. Medications for motion sickness (such as meclizine) or antihistamines can help control symptoms. However, do not take any medication without a doctor's prescription .

Special exercises (Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy)

This is like physical therapy. It involves a series of special exercises that improve balance and eye movement control. These exercises help the brain adapt to the defect in the ear.

Surgery

This is rarely necessary. Surgery is only considered if there is a serious underlying cause, such as a brain tumor or a serious neck injury.

Are there any ways to reduce this dizziness at home?

There are several things you can do to reduce the discomfort of vertigo:

• When standing, turning your head, or bending, do movements very slowly .
• When sleeping, prop your head up with two pillows .
• When you feel dizzy, go to a dark, quiet room and lie down for a while .
• Sit down immediately as soon as you feel dizzy.
• When picking up something on the floor, bend your knees and lower yourself, rather than bending at the waist.
• If you are afraid of falling, use a support such as a cane when walking.

When should you seek medical advice?

Although vertigo is usually not dangerous, there are some cases where you should definitely see a doctor. If you experience vertigo frequently, or if the symptoms are severe, you should definitely see a doctor to find out the cause.

Vertigo, dizziness, spinning head, loss of balance, BPPV, Epley maneuver, ringing in the ears