Vertigo is a type of dizziness that creates a false sensation of spinning, tilting, or swaying even when you’re not moving. It’s more than just feeling lightheaded; it’s a disturbing sense that your surroundings are moving. People often describe it as a “chakkar” or a sudden loss of balance. Vertigo can be intense,sometimes causing nausea, anxiety, and making it difficult to carry out daily activities. It arises when there’s a mismatch between signals from the eyes, inner ears, and brain that help you maintain balance.
Vertigo is a symptom, not a disease. It can arise from many underlying disorders, particularly those affecting the inner ear or brain. There are over 40 known causes. Identifying the exact cause is key to effective treatment.
The timing and duration of vertigo episodes vary depending on the underlying cause. In Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vertigo is typically triggered by specific head movements such as turning over in bed or looking up and the sensation usually lasts only a few seconds to under a minute. In Ménière’s disease, episodes tend to occur suddenly and can last for several hours, often accompanied by hearing loss or ringing in the ears. Vestibular neuritis, usually caused by a viral infection affecting the inner ear, can lead to severe vertigo that lasts for days and may be quite disabling. In the case of vestibular migraine, vertigo episodes can range from just a few seconds to several days, sometimes occurring with or without a headache. With accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most cases of vertigo can be effectively managed and resolved over time.
In most cases, vertigo is not permanent and can be effectively treated once the underlying cause is accurately diagnosed. Many patients become symptom-free through personalized treatment plans that may include vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), repositioning maneuvers for BPPV, medication, lifestyle guidance, and in some cases, specialized neuro-otological interventions.
Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key—when left untreated or misdiagnosed, vertigo symptoms may persist or worsen over time.
Diagnosing vertigo involves a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of dizziness and balance issues. The process typically begins with a detailed review of the patient’s medical history and symptoms, followed by a physical and neurological examination.
Specialized diagnostic tests are often used to pinpoint the source of the problem. These may include Videonystagmography (VNG) to assess eye movements, Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT) to evaluate the function of the semicircular canals, and Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV) to examine the brain’s perception of balance. Additional tests can help assess inner ear and nerve function, while audiometry is used to check for any associated hearing loss.Only in rare cases, MRI or CT scans may be recommended to rule out structural or neurological conditions. Accurate diagnosis is essential to guide the most effective treatment plan for vertigo.
Managing vertigo begins with immediate steps during an episode to ensure safety and reduce symptom intensity. It is important to sit or lie down as soon as the sensation begins to prevent falls. Avoiding sudden head movements and staying calm can help minimize discomfort. Observing and noting any associated symptoms, such as headaches or changes in vision, can also assist healthcare providers in determining the cause.
Long-term treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying condition. For those diagnosed with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), canalith repositioning maneuvers like the Epley or Zuma technique can effectively move displaced inner ear crystals and often provide rapid relief. Medications, such as vestibular suppressants, may be used short-term during acute episodes, but long-term use is typically avoided unless specifically recommended by a physician.
In many cases, Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is highly beneficial. This involves customized balance and gaze-stabilization exercises to be done under the guidance of trained and specialised physiotherapist that help the brain adapt and compensate, especially in conditions like vestibular neuritis or chronic dizziness. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary changes play an important role in managing vertigo. Stress reduction through yoga, meditation, or counseling, maintaining regular sleep, staying hydrated, and keeping blood sugar levels stable can all contribute to symptom control. For specific conditions like Ménière’s disease, reducing salt intake is often advised. Avoiding known triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, and certain foods may also help prevent recurrences.
Yes. Stress and anxiety can both mimic and worsen vertigo symptoms. Stress management techniques are essential, especially in cases of vestibular migraine or chronic dizziness.
No. Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative neck condition but does not directly cause vertigo, according to current medical understanding.
Is Vertigo Dangerous?
Vertigo itself is not usually life-threatening, but it can be disabling and frightening, especially if it occurs suddenly. In older adults, it significantly increases the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries. While many causes of vertigo are benign, in some rare cases, it can be a symptom of more serious underlying conditions such as a stroke, brain tumor, or neurological disorder. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if vertigo is accompanied by warning signs like a sudden severe headache, slurred speech, vision loss, or weakness in the limbs. Early evaluation can help rule out life-threatening causes and ensure timely treatment.
Can Vertigo Cause High Blood Pressure?
Vertigo does not directly cause high blood pressure. However, the reverse relationship is more common—fluctuations in blood pressure, whether due to underlying health conditions or medication side effects, can lead to dizziness or vertigo. Some blood pressure medications, particularly those that affect circulation or hydration levels, may also contribute to balance issues. Monitoring both blood pressure and vertigo symptoms together can help identify patterns and guide appropriate medical management.
While diet alone cannot cure vertigo, it plays an important supportive role in managing certain conditions such as Ménière’s disease and vestibular migraine. Making specific dietary changes can help reduce the frequency or severity of episodes. Reducing sodium intake is especially helpful in managing fluid pressure in the inner ear. Limiting caffeine and alcohol can also prevent symptom flare-ups in some individuals. Staying well-hydrated and maintaining stable blood sugar levels throughout the day are essential for overall balance and energy regulation.
It’s also helpful to track and avoid personal food triggers, which can vary from person to person—especially in the case of migraines.
Yes, headaches can sometimes occur alongside vertigo, particularly in conditions such as vestibular migraine, where both symptoms are closely linked. In these cases, episodes of dizziness or spinning sensations may be accompanied by migraine headaches, sensitivity to bright light or sound, and nausea. However, it’s important to note that not all forms of vertigo are associated with headaches. The presence or absence of a headache can help healthcare providers narrow down the potential causes and guide appropriate treatment.
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