Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can be unsettling and disruptive to daily life. It’s a symptom rather than a condition and can be caused by various underlying issues. Understanding the causes of vertigo and exploring treatment options can help manage and alleviate symptoms effectively.
Understanding What Causes Vertigo
Vertigo is a type of dizziness where you feel as if you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when they are not. It can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and difficulty maintaining balance. Unlike lightheadedness or general dizziness, vertigo is specifically related to disturbances in the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation.
Common issues vertigo is associated with include:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
- Meniere’s disease
- Vestibular neuritis
- Labyrinthitis
- Migrainous vertigo
- Head injury
- Stroke
Often, vertigo is caused by issues within the inner ear that affect your balance. Talking to your ENT doctor about your symptoms is important to find the underlying cause. Once that cause is found, the correct treatment can be applied. It’s important to identify what triggers your vertigo and avoid those whenever possible. That may include certain head movements or foods.
Targeted exercises can improve balance and reduce the frequency and severity of vertigo episodes. In some cases, you may need medication to help relieve vertigo and other symptoms that are related to it. Your ENT doctor may also recommend vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT). VRT involves exercises and maneuvers designed to improve balance and reduce dizziness.
Surgical options may be considered in severe cases where other treatments are ineffective. For example, a surgical procedure may be necessary to reduce inner ear fluid pressure or destroy part of the vestibular system.
Contact Our ENT Doctor Today
Make sure your vertigo is under control, and you understand what’s causing it. Contact your ENT doctor to learn more and schedule your appointment today.