Vertigo is a disruptive sensation of spinning or movement when a person is not actually moving. It is often described as feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or experiencing a spinning sensation. Vertigo can result from various underlying causes, including inner ear problems, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Meniere’s disease, or even more serious conditions like vestibular migraines or acoustic neuromas. The sensation of vertigo can be triggered by sudden head movements, changes in position, or even simply lying down or getting up from bed. While vertigo itself is not typically a serious condition, it can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, leading to falls, accidents, and anxiety in severe cases.
Diagnosis of vertigo often involves a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests such as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver or electronystagmography to assess inner ear function and rule out other potential causes. Treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause and may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises to improve balance and reduce symptoms, medications to alleviate nausea and dizziness, or surgical interventions in rare cases. Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding sudden head movements or triggers, can also help manage vertigo symptoms effectively. Overall, early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in providing relief and improving the quality of life for individuals experiencing vertigo. Schedule a consultation with one of our providers at The Manhattan Center for Headache & Neurology or it’s sister site, Nervana Neurospa.
By: Andrew Chan, PA
Kim JS, Newman-Toker DE, Kerber KA, Jahn K, Bertholon P, Waterston J, Lee H, Bisdorff A, Strupp M. Vascular vertigo and dizziness: Diagnostic criteria. J Vestib Res. 2022;32(3):205-222. doi: 10.3233/VES-210169. PMID: 35367974; PMCID: PMC9249306.