What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?
BPPV is a type of balance disorder that occurs when calcium crystals in our inner ear break off or float to the wrong part of the balance canals. If these crystals lodge in the wrong part of the canal, such as the cilia (hairs), this can stimulate the feeling of dizziness, usually accompanied by nausea and feeling off-balance.
BPPV is accountable for 25% of vertigo cases. The condition often comes about as a result of changing position, such as getting out of bed in the morning. These episodes can be sudden and severe.
The good news is, that for most people this is a temporary condition but it can be persistent with symptoms ranging from minutes to hours and in worst cases days or weeks.
However, there are many conditions that can cause similar symptoms to BPPV, so a careful diagnosis is of high importance.
Symptoms of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo:
- Swaying
- Spinning
- Tilting
- Rocking
- Feeling of falling
- Lightheadedness
- Feeling off balance
- Headaches or even a migraine
- Rapid movements of the eye
Causes of vertigo:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
- Low blood pressure
- Sore neck
- Migraine
- Meniere's disease
- Ear infection
- Whiplash
- Some medications
How to relieve symptoms of dizziness or vertigo?
- Avoid making sudden movements, especially from a lying to sitting position or sitting to standing
- If one side is worse than the other, avoid sleeping on that side
- Avoid lying flat
- Do not bend over
- Avoid positions that provoke symptoms
- Don't turn your head too far up or down
Diagnosis of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.
Your physiotherapist will work with you to find out the frequency, duration, and intensity of your dizziness and provoking positions to determine the area of your ear responsible. Tests such as visual, positional, balance, and walking will be carried out to confirm the problem area. They will also observe your eyes for the onset of nystagmus (rapid movements of the eye). With a diagnosis, they can begin treating to get you on the road to recovery.
Treatment for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.
Clients are given a specific individualised home exercise program based upon their assessment findings, alongside hands-on treatment to re-set the balance in the inner ear.
If you experiencing dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when moving positions, you may be suffering from Benign Paroxysmal Position Vertigo (BPPV). Please book yourself in for a Free Initial Assessment and we can help you.