Vertigo is often described as a spinning sensation, where either the person feels like they are moving or the surroundings seem to whirl around them.
According to research, five people in every thousand in the UK consult their GP every year due to vertigo. This makes it a very common ailment and symptom.
It is believed that between 15% and 20% of adults experience dizziness at some point each year and 5% of these cases are attributed to vertigo.
What Causes Vertigo
Vertigo is commonly caused by issues within the inner ear, where the balance mechanisms reside. Here are some of the primary causes:
1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
This occurs when tiny calcium particles (canals) clump up in the canals of the inner ear. Movements such as turning the head can trigger vertigo in BPPV because they shift these particles, causing the inner ear to send signals to the brain that create a sense of spinning.
What Causes Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV)?
To understand BPPV and why it occurs, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the anatomy of the inner ear and its functions. The inner ear has three main parts:
Cochlea – a snail-shaped, fluid-filled organ responsible for hearing
Semi-circular canals – fluid-filled channels that sense head position and regulate balance
Otolith organs – tiny sacks that connect the semi-circular canals. These sacks contain small calcium crystals (canals) that help detect movement and maintain balance.
2. Meniere’s Disease
This disorder is characterized by fluid buildup in the inner ear, leading to episodes of vertigo along with ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss.
Meniere’s disease can cause vertigo attacks that last from hours to a full day.
3. Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis
This is an inner ear problem usually related to an infection (viral or bacterial) that inflames the nerves that help the body sense balance. The inflammation interferes with the signals sent to the brain, leading to vertigo.
4. Migraine-Associated Vertigo
Some people experience vertigo as part of a migraine, either before, during, or after the headache phase.
Is Vertigo a Warning Sign
While vertigo is often linked to minor inner ear issues like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or Meniere’s disease and usually isn’t dangerous, it can sometimes signal more serious health problems.
This is especially true if vertigo is accompanied by alarming symptoms such as severe headaches, double vision, difficulty speaking, or issues with coordination. These symptoms could indicate severe conditions like a brain tumour or stroke, requiring immediate medical attention.
It’s vital to understand the importance of these accompanying symptoms. For example, sudden, severe headaches combined with vertigo could suggest a stroke, while ongoing, worsening vertigo with hearing loss might indicate a tumour affecting neurological functions. Therefore, if you experience vertigo along with other serious symptoms, seeking prompt medical evaluation is crucial.
This helps in diagnosing potentially serious conditions early, allowing for timely and effective treatment. Always err on the side of caution and consult healthcare professionals to ensure proper care and management of your symptoms.
Here’s a case study of a patient who experienced vertigo for a decade, providing an in-depth look at how persistent vertigo can impact daily life and the importance of seeking expert advice.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing vertigo involves a physical examination and possibly a series of tests to determine the cause.
These tests might include the Fukuda-Unterberger test, where you march in place with your eyes closed to check for involuntary movements, or imaging tests like CT scans or MRI if a neurological cause is suspected.
Treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause. Simple repositioning manoeuvres, such as the Epley manoeuvre for BPPV, are often effective.
Antibiotics may be prescribed for vertigo caused by a bacterial infection. For more persistent vertigo, vestibular rehabilitation therapy—a type of physical therapy aimed at strengthening the vestibular system—is recommended.
When to Seek Medical Advice
It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience recurrent episodes of vertigo or if your vertigo is accompanied by severe symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the quality of life and can prevent potential complications if the vertigo is due to a more serious underlying condition.
Key Takeaways
While vertigo can be a disconcerting experience, it is usually not indicative of a severe illness. However, understanding when this symptom might be a sign of something more serious is crucial to managing your health effectively. Always consult healthcare professionals if you are unsure or if your symptoms seem to escalate.
If you or someone you know frequently experiences vertigo, it is advisable to monitor the symptoms closely and seek medical advice for proper assessment and management. Being informed and proactive about your health is key to managing symptoms like vertigo effectively.
