Vertigo is a medical disorder marked by spinning or moving, even while one is still. It is usually caused by problems with the inner ear or brain and can lead to balance abnormalities. Symptoms can include dizziness, loss of balance, nausea, and difficulty walking or standing. Diagnosis and therapy are critical for managing the condition and increasing the quality of life for those affected. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should get competent medical assistance.

Causes Of Vertigo

The causes of vertigo are varied and can involve several different systems within the body, primarily the inner ear and the brain.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) : This condition is the most common cause of vertigo and occurs when tiny calcium particles (canals) clump up in canals of the inner ear. The inner ear signals the brain about head and body movements relative to gravity. BPPV can cause intense, brief episodes of dizziness associated with moving the head in certain positions.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Meniere's Disease : This condition of the inner ear is believed to result from an accumulation of fluid and alterations in ear pressure. It may cause episodes of vertigo, ear ringing (tinnitus), and hearing loss.

Meniere's Disease

Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: It constitutes the swelling of the inner ear or the nerves that bridge the inner ear with the brain. Such inflammation disrupts the transmission of sensory signals from the ear to the brain, resulting in vertigo. Typically, this condition is linked to a viral infection.
Migraine: Individuals suffering from migraines might encounter vertigo or different forms of dizziness, even in the absence of an intense headache. These episodes of vertigo can persist from a few minutes to several hours and may coincide with headaches and sensitivity to light and noise.
Head or Neck Injury: Vertigo can be caused by a head or neck injury that disrupts the vestibular system.
Stroke or Brain Tumour: Less commonly, vertigo can be a symptom of a stroke, brain tumour, or other brain disorders. Other symptoms, such as difficulty speaking, vision problems, or muscle weakness, may accompany vertigo.
Medications: Certain medications can cause vertigo as a side effect, especially those that affect the ear or the brain.
Ear Surgery: Surgery involving the inner ear can result in postoperative vertigo.
Ageing: Degeneration of the vestibular system in the inner ear can occur with ageing, leading to vertigo.

Treatment Of Vertigo

Treatment options for vertigo vary depending on the underlying cause, but they typically include the following approaches:

Canalith Repositioning Manoeuvres: For BPPV, healthcare professionals can use the Epley or Semont manoeuvres, involving specific head movements, to shift calcium deposits from the canal to a chamber in the inner ear for absorption.

Epley manoeuvre

Medication: Depending on the cause, various drugs might be recommended to alleviate symptoms of vertigo, nausea, or motion sickness. Antihistamines, anticholinergics, and benzodiazepines are commonly used.
Vestibular Rehabilitation: This form of physical therapy strengthens the vestibular system. The therapy helps the brain compensate for differences in inner ear signals and improves balance and coordination.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes: In cases such as Meniere's disease, lowering salt consumption, abstaining from caffeine and alcohol, and controlling stress levels can aid in diminishing both the frequency and intensity of vertigo episodes.
Surgery: In severe cases, particularly where a structural problem or persistent BPPV causes vertigo, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Management of Associated Conditions: If vertigo is a symptom of another condition, such as a migraine or diabetes, controlling the underlying condition can help alleviate the vertigo.
Psychological Therapy: If vertigo is associated with anxiety or panic disorders, psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can be beneficial.
Education and Support: Understanding the condition and having a clear diagnosis can reduce anxiety and help individuals cope with the symptoms of vertigo more effectively.

Conclusion

Vertigo is a condition characterised by the sensation of spinning or dizziness, stemming from various causes such as BPPV, Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, or neurological issues. Diagnosis involves a detailed medical assessment to identify the underlying cause. Treatment varies according to the diagnosis and may include canalith repositioning manoeuvres, medication, vestibular rehabilitation, lifestyle changes, or, in severe cases, surgery. Effective vertigo management is critical for increasing quality of life and includes a combination of medical therapy, lifestyle changes, and, in some situations, psychological support. Individuals experiencing vertigo symptoms should seek competent medical guidance to ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

FAQs About Vertigo

Q1. What are the common causes of vertigo?
A1. Vertigo can be caused by inner ear problems, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Meniere's disease, or other conditions like migraines or head injuries.

Q2. How is vertigo diagnosed?
A2. Diagnosis often involves a medical history review, physical examination, and tests such as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, electronystagmography (ENG), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Q3. What treatments are available for vertigo?
A3. Treatments may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises, medications (e.g., anti-vertigo medications, steroids), canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver), or lifestyle changes.

Q4. Can vertigo be cured?
A4. The prognosis for vertigo depends on its underlying cause. While some causes may resolve with treatment, others may require ongoing management to control symptoms.

Q5. What lifestyle changes can help manage vertigo symptoms?
A5. Lifestyle changes may include avoiding triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, maintaining hydration, practicing stress management techniques, and ensuring adequate sleep.

References:

https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/vertigo
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21769-vertigo