Vertigo

Definition

Vertigo is a type of dizziness in which there is a sensation of spinning or swaying but in reality the body is motionless. There are two types of vertigo peripheral and central vertigo depending on the location of the damaged vestibular pathway.

Alternative names

Benign paroxismal positional vertigo

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Vertigo is generally due to problems in the balance mechanism of inner ear called as vestibular system. Vertigo is one of the symptoms of discontinuation of anti depressant drugs, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Bacterial infections, common cold and influenza cause inflammation of inner ear that result in transient vertigo. Vertigo can also be experienced after long flights or boat journeys. Other causes of vertigo are alcohol and high levels of sound pressure that rattles the inner ear resulting in loss of balance. Activities that cause signs and symptoms of vertigo differ from person to person.

Family history of vertigo and inner ear infection are the risk factors for vertigo.

Symptoms

Symptoms appear on movement of head. Nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, feeling of surrounding is moving, feeling of things are jumping or moving, unsteadiness, blurred vision, loss of balance and problems in standing and walking are the symptoms of vertigo.

Signs and tests

A simple test performed at the care giver’s office is called DIX-Hallpike maneuver. Tests to check the balance of vestibular system are electronystagmography (ENG), video electronystagmography (VNG), rotation test, calorie reflux test and computerized dynamic posturography (CDP). Tests to check the functioning of auditory system include pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, acoustic-reflux, electrocochleography (ECoG), otoacoustic emissions (OAE) and auditory brain stem response test. Other tests are MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), magnetic resonance angiography of head, and CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography).

Treatment

A series of movements called as canalith repositioning procedure or Epley’s maneuver are used for the treatment of benign paroxismal positional vertigo. If these therapies do not work then surgery is the option.

Expectations (Prognosis)

The condition is uncomfortable but gets cured over the period of time but can suddenly reoccur.

Complications

Dehydration due to frequent vomiting in severe vertigo is the complication.

Calling your health care provide

If there are symptoms of vertigo or recurrent symptoms especially with headache, double vision, fever, hearing loss, loss of consciousness, trouble in speaking, weakness in arms and legs, numbness or tingling, falling or difficulty in walking, chest pain or rapid or slower heart rate then one must take medical help immediately.

Prevention

Avoiding the head position that triggers positional vertigo can prevent vertigo.

Reference

Nih.gov, wikipedia.com, mayoclinic.com