BPPV

Overcoming Vertigo: A Guide to Treating Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo BPPV

Do you experience regular dizziness or a spinning sensation? Want to know if you could be experiencing BPPV and how to treat it? Discover the symptoms, causes, and effective treatments for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, and learn how to regain your balance with Pinnacle ENT Associates.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, also known as BPPV, is a condition where the tiny calcium crystals within the inner ear become dislodged. Once out of place, these crystals can move into the semicircular canals of the ear, which can cause balance issues, dizziness, and vertigo.

Common Symptoms of BPPV:

• Vertigo, or the spinning sensation when you move your head
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Vomiting

These symptoms can often manifest suddenly, which can make everyday activities challenging.

What Causes BPPV?

When the tiny crystals called otoconia become dislodged from their normal location and travel to the semicircular canals of the inner ear, their migration causes a disruption to normal fluid movement. With these crystals out of place, the brain begins to receive conflicting signals about the body’s position in space.

Common triggers for BPPV can be linked to head trauma, inner ear disorders, age, and as the result of extended bed rest.

How is BPPV Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of BPPV usually involves a simple test called the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. During this test, our ENT specialists will gently guide you through specific head movements and track your eye movements for signs of nystagmus (uncontrolled eye movement), which is a key indicator of BPPV.

How is BPPV Treated?

BPPV is typically treated using specific head maneuvers to help reposition the dislodged crystals. These movements are designed to allow the crystals to move from the semicircular canals back into their proper location in the inner ear. These maneuvers are often highly effective and can be performed by one of our ENT specialists in the office.

Common Treatments for BPPV:

• Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: The Epley and Semont maneuvers are both techniques commonly used to reposition the crystals within your ear. These involve a series of head and body movements designed to move the crystals back into position.

• Physical Therapy: Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) might be recommended for improving balance and reducing future episodes of vertigo.

• Medication: While medication isn’t typically an effective treatment for BPPV, it may be prescribed to manage severe nausea or vomiting that might be associated with BPPV.

How Long Does BPPV Last?

The duration of BPPV can vary. For many patients, symptoms might resolve after treatments with repositioning maneuvers. For others however, recurrent episodes over months or years can occur, necessitating the need for ongoing management and regular follow-up to reduce the frequency and severity of future episodes.

If you suspect you may be suffering from BPPV or are experiencing symptoms of vertigo, it’s important to seek expert medical advice. At Pinnacle ENT Associates, we’re dedicated to helping you find relief from dizziness and other balance issues. Our team will work with you from diagnosis through treatment to ensure you get exactly what you need to restore your balance and quality of life. Don’t wait — contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert ENT specialists.