Clinical information:
Vertigo is commonly mistaken for a condition, but it is more accurately classified as a symptom rather than an independent ailment. The root of vertigo lies in issues within the inner ear, leading to a sensation of dizziness. The intensity of this dizziness varies from person to person, ranging from mild to severe. Individuals experiencing vertigo often perceive a sensation of falling and a disorienting spinning of their surroundings.
Inner ear problems like the following can cause vertigo:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Ménière's Disease
- Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis
- Migraines
- Stroke
People who have vertigo will have the following symptoms:
- The feeling of being unbalance and falling
- The feeling of spinning (whether it’s their head or the world around them)
- The feeling of tilting and swaying
- Nausea
- Headaches and dizziness
- Tinnitus
- Hearing loss
- Vomiting
Treatment of vertigo will depend on the severity and what exactly is causing it. In some cases, sufficient rest may be the sole requirement. Other times, medication may be prescribed to alleviate nausea and address the specific factors contributing to the vertigo. Vestibular rehabilitation can also be pursued as a viable option. In instances of severe vertigo, surgical intervention may be necessary.
