Vertigo Dizziness (Vertigo)
Vertigo is a condition where the patient feels as though they or their surroundings are spinning or moving, even though there is no actual movement. This symptom differs from general dizziness, which usually refers to lightheadedness or imbalance. Vertigo is often related to disorders of the balance system in the inner ear or the brain that controls body balance. It is typically a symptom caused by other diseases or abnormalities rather than a standalone condition.
Causes of Vertigo Dizziness
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Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): The most common cause of vertigo dizziness. It occurs when small calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged from their normal position and interfere with the balance sensors in the inner ear. Certain head movements (such as lying down or looking up) can trigger vertigo attacks.
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Meniere’s Disease: An inner ear disorder believed to be caused by excessive fluid or pressure changes within the inner ear. It causes episodic vertigo, accompanied by tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and fluctuating hearing loss.
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Vestibular Neuritis/Labyrinthitis: Inflammation or viral infection of the vestibular nerve in the inner ear that controls balance. It results in sudden severe vertigo, causing temporary loss of balance. It often follows viral infections such as cold or flu viruses.
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Vestibular Migraine: Certain types of migraines can cause vertigo. Patients may experience vertigo along with migraine headaches, visual disturbances like flashing lights, or sensitivity to light and sound during episodes.
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Other Causes: These include head or neck injuries, tumors of the ear or brain (such as acoustic neuroma), stroke or insufficient blood flow to the brain, side effects of certain medications toxic to the inner ear, systemic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases causing low blood pressure or arrhythmias, severe dehydration, and more.
Basic Self-Care Guidelines
Besides medical treatment, patients can take care of themselves to reduce the chances of vertigo attacks or alleviate symptoms as follows:
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Avoid triggers that worsen symptoms: Avoid known triggers that cause dizziness, such as psychological stress, anxiety, insufficient rest, or other known stimuli that previously triggered vertigo attacks. Try to get enough sleep and manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to help reduce risk.
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Modify diet and avoid physical triggers: Reduce salt and sodium intake, and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages as well as smoking. These substances can increase the frequency or severity of vertigo attacks. Dietary changes are particularly beneficial for patients with Meniere’s disease or vestibular migraine.
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Stay well hydrated: Drink plenty of water or electrolyte drinks throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can lower blood pressure and trigger dizziness. Increase fluid intake especially in conditions causing fluid loss such as hot weather or after exercise.
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Move cautiously: When experiencing dizziness, change positions slowly, such as standing up from bed or a chair gradually. Avoid rapid head turns or shaking. If dizziness starts, sit or lie down immediately in a safe place to prevent falls and injuries. For severe balance problems, consider using a cane temporarily until symptoms improve to prevent accidents.
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Rest in a quiet place when symptoms occur: If vertigo happens, stop activity and rest in a dark, quiet room to reduce sensory stimuli that worsen the spinning sensation. Staying still in a calm place can speed symptom relief. Avoid driving or operating machinery while dizzy until fully recovered.
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