If vertigo is caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the problem is tiny calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) that have moved into the wrong part of the inner ear. The goal is not to get rid of the crystals, but to move them back to where they belong.
The most effective treatment is usually a canalith repositioning maneuver, such as the Epley maneuver, performed by a trained healthcare professional or, in some cases, at home after you’ve been shown how to do it correctly. Studies have found these maneuvers are highly effective for many people with BPPV.
Other helpful steps include:
- Getting an accurate diagnosis, since not all dizziness is BPPV.
- Avoiding sudden head movements until symptoms improve.
- Following up with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or recur.
- Vestibular rehabilitation exercises if recommended.
Do not assume all vertigo is due to ear crystals. Seek urgent medical care if dizziness is accompanied by:
- weakness or numbness on one side,
- difficulty speaking,
- double vision,
- severe headache,
- fainting,
- chest pain,
- difficulty walking that is new or severe.
If your dizziness lasts for hours at a time, is constant rather than triggered by head movements, or is associated with hearing loss or ringing in one ear, it may have a different cause and should be evaluated.
If you describe what your vertigo feels like (for example, brief spinning when rolling over in bed versus constant dizziness), I can help explain the most likely causes and what treatments are commonly used.
