Vertigo and Dizziness

Vertigo is a specific kind of dizziness that gives the false sense that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving. It’s distinct from mere lightheadedness and is often caused by problems within the inner ear or the brain.

Common causes of vertigo include:

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Tiny calcium particles clump up in the canals of the inner ear, which sends signals to the brain about body and head movements relative to gravity.
2. Meniere’s Disease: A disorder that affects the inner ear and can lead to dizzy spells and hearing loss.
3. Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: Infection-related inflammation in the inner ear around nerves that are important for helping the body sense balance.

Dizziness, more generally, can be due to a variety of factors, including:

1. Low Blood Pressure
2. Dehydration
3. Medication Side Effects
4. Anxiety Disorders
5. Low Blood Sugar
6. Anemia

For persistent vertigo or dizziness, it is crucial to seek medical advice to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Treatment for vertigo and dizziness depends on the cause:

1. Epley Maneuver: A series of head and body movements to move the calcium deposits in BPPV.
2. Medications: Such as antihistamines or anticholinergics to reduce motion sickness and anti-nausea medications.
3. Lifestyle Modifications: Adequate hydration, managing stress, and avoiding substances like caffeine and tobacco.
4. Physical Therapy: Vestibular rehabilitation to improve balance.
5. Surgery: In rare cases, where vertigo is caused by a serious underlying problem, such as a tumor or injury to the brain or neck.