Vertigo is a very common medical complaint. It is a symptom that in some individuals might be barely noticeable, while in others the feeling is so severe that individuals are unable to maintain their balance or do everyday tasks. You should see your doctor if you have persistent signs of vertigo or it keeps coming back. Vertigo is often a symptom of treatable medical conditions.
What is vertigo?
Vertigo is the feeling that you are moving when you are not. Or it might feel like things around you are moving when they are not. Vertigo can feel similar to motion sickness. People experiencing vertigo generally describe the sensation as “feeling dizzy” or feeling as if the room is spinning. Vertigo is not the same as lightheadedness. Attacks of vertigo can develop suddenly and last for a few seconds, or they may last much longer. If you have severe vertigo, your symptoms may be constant and last for several days, making normal life very difficult.
Other symptoms associated with vertigo may include:
• loss of balance – which can make it difficult to stand or walk
• feeling sick or being sick
• dizziness
What causes vertigo?
Vertigo is commonly caused by a problem with the way balance works in the inner ear, although it can also be caused by problems in certain parts of the brain. Some of the most common causes include:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) – BPPV occurs when tiny calcium particles (canaliths) clump up in canals of the inner ear. The inner ear sends signals to the brain about head and body movements relative to gravity. It helps you keep your balance. BPPV can occur for no known reason and may be associated with age.
Meniere’s disease – This is an inner ear disorder thought to be caused by a buildup of fluid and changing pressure in the ear. It can cause episodes of vertigo along with ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss.
Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis – This is an inner ear problem usually related to infection (usually viral). The infection causes inflammation in the inner ear around nerves that are important for helping the body sense balance.
Less often vertigo may be associated with:
• Head or neck injury
• Brain problems such as stroke or tumour
• Certain medications that cause ear damage
• Migraine headaches
Treatment
Treatment for vertigo depends on what is causing it. In many cases, vertigo goes away without any treatment. This is because your brain is able to adapt, at least in part, to the inner ear changes, relying on other mechanisms to maintain balance. Your healthcare provider may refer you to other professionals to help in the management of vertigo.
What can you do to prevent falling?
If you have dizziness or vertigo, you should avoid several activities, including the following:
• Driving (until your doctor gives you approval).
• Standing in high places, such as climbing a ladder.
• Walking in the dark.
• Wearing high-heeled shoes.
You are strongly recommended to take these steps to reduce your risk of falling:
• Always use handrails when walking up and down stairs.
• Change positions or turn slowly. Have something nearby to hold onto.
• Install hand grips in baths and showers.
• Practice exercises that can improve balance – such as tai chi or yoga.
• Remove floor clutter – that you might trip over – like throw rugs, loose electrical cords and stools.
• Sit on the edge of the bed for several minutes in the morning before you stand up.
• Use a cane or walker.
Conclusion
Vertigo is a sensation of feeling off balance. If you have these dizzy spells, you might feel like you are spinning or that the world around you is spinning. If vertigo persists you should see your doctor for a complete evaluation. Treatment is directed at the exact cause of the vertigo. There are various options for treatment. You should talk to your doctor to learn how best to manage the symptom of vertigo.
Ask Your Dr is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor with over thirty-eight years in clinical practice. Dr Brett Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 497 5828).
