What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a condition that affects the balance system and causes a person to feel as if their surroundings are spinning. It most often originates from the balance organs in the inner ear or the nerve pathways connected to the brain.
- Vertigo is not a disease itself but a symptom of various underlying health conditions.
- It can range from a mild sense of imbalance to a severe inability to move.
What Causes Vertigo?
Vertigo is most commonly caused by inner ear problems, but there are many other causes involving the brain, eyes, muscles, and nervous system.
Most Common Causes
- Inner Ear Problems: The most frequent cause of vertigo is dysfunction in the balance organs of the inner ear.
- BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo): Brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position due to displaced crystals in the inner ear.
- Meniere’s Disease: Characterized by hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo caused by increased fluid pressure in the inner ear.
- Vestibular Neuritis: Inflammation of the vestibular nerve, usually due to a viral infection.
- Middle Ear Infections: Fluid accumulation or inflammation in the middle ear can affect balance.
- Migraine: Dizziness and imbalance are common symptoms in individuals with migraines.
- Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), brain tumors, or stroke can cause vertigo.
- Low Blood Pressure: Sudden drops in blood pressure or anemia can lead to dizziness.
- Low Blood Sugar: In people with diabetes, low blood sugar can cause dizziness and weakness.
Symptoms of Vertigo
Vertigo is usually accompanied by the following symptoms:
- The sensation that the surroundings are spinning
- Loss of balance or unsteadiness while walking
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tinnitus and hearing loss
- Uncontrolled eye movements (nystagmus)
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
If vertigo is accompanied by severe headache, loss of consciousness, speech problems, or weakness, seek immediate medical attention.
How Is Vertigo Diagnosed?
Patients with vertigo should be thoroughly evaluated by ENT, neurology, and cardiology specialists.
Diagnostic tests include:
- Physical Examination: Includes tests of eye movements, balance, and a neurological exam.
- Dix-Hallpike Maneuver: A special test to detect displaced crystals in the inner ear.
- Hearing Tests (Audiometry): Used to evaluate hearing loss.
- Vestibular Tests: Used to assess the vestibular function of the inner ear.
- MRI or CT Imaging: May be required to rule out brain-related causes.
Vertigo Treatment Methods
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of vertigo.
Treatment Options:
- BPPV Treatment: Special maneuvers like the Epley maneuver are used to reposition the inner ear crystals.
- Meniere’s Disease: Salt restriction, diuretics, and lifestyle modifications are recommended.
- Vestibular Neuritis: Treated with antiviral and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Medication: Antiemetics, blood pressure stabilizers, and vestibular suppressants can be used.
- Balance Therapy (Vestibular Rehabilitation): Specialized exercises to retrain the balance system.
- Surgical Treatment: In rare cases, surgery may be needed in advanced inner ear diseases.
Recommendations for People with Vertigo
- Avoid sudden movements and move slowly.
- Monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
- Drink plenty of fluids and reduce salt intake (especially in Meniere’s disease).
- Rest with eyes closed during a vertigo attack.
- Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.
- Strengthen your vestibular system with balance exercises.
Conclusion
Vertigo is a significant symptom that can result from various conditions and negatively impact quality of life. Inner ear diseases, neurological disorders, and circulatory problems are among the primary causes.
If vertigo is frequent or severe, consulting a specialist is essential.
Prof. Dr. Elif Aksoy
ENT Specialist – Dizziness and Balance Disorders
