Blog

What is Vertigo?

06/25/2024

Experiencing vertigo? It’s a common medical condition known for causing a spinning sensation or a false perception of motion. Close to 40% of American adults will face this disorienting feeling at some point, with women slightly more prone than men. Keep reading to understand the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for vertigo.

What Causes Vertigo?

Vertigo can be caused by various factors, including inner ear problems such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Meniere’s disease, vestibular migraines, acoustic neuroma, or other underlying conditions affecting the inner ear or brain. Disruption in the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation, can lead to vertigo symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Vertigo

Signs and symptoms of vertigo may include:

1. Spinning sensation or feeling of movement
2. Loss of balance or coordination
3. Nausea or vomiting
4. Sweating
5. Headaches
6. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
7. Difficulty walking or standing
8. Jerky eye movements (nystagmus)
9. Feeling lightheaded or disoriented
10. Disorientation or feeling unsteady

How Long Does Vertigo Last?

The duration of vertigo episodes can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some people may experience brief, intense episodes that last for seconds to minutes, while others may have persistent symptoms that can last for hours, days, or even weeks. Seeking medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial for managing the duration of vertigo episodes effectively.

What To Do If You’re Experiencing Vertigo?

If you are experiencing vertigo, here are some steps you can take:

1. Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and find a safe place to sit or lie down to avoid falling.
2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen vertigo, so drink water to stay hydrated.
3. Avoid Sudden Movements: Slowly change positions to prevent triggering or worsening vertigo.
4. Focus on a Fixed Point: Fixing your gaze on a stationary object can help stabilize your vision and reduce dizziness.
5. Seek Medical Advice: If vertigo persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treatment for Vertigo

While most people with vertigo improve without treatment, seeking medical advice is crucial for a personalized treatment plan to effectively manage vertigo. Depending on the underlying cause, your physician may suggest medications like antihistamines, anti-nausea drugs, or vestibular suppressants to alleviate symptoms. Additionally, engaging in physical therapy exercises targeting balance and eye movements can aid in managing vertigo. In specific instances, maneuvers such as the Epley maneuver may be recommended to address positional vertigo.

When to Seek Medical Assistance

One should consider seeking a specialist when experiencing vertigo if:

1. Symptoms Persist: If vertigo episodes persist or worsen despite home remedies or initial treatment.
2. Frequent Recurrences: Recurrent episodes of vertigo that significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
3. Severe Symptoms: Severe symptoms such as sudden hearing loss, double vision, difficulty speaking, or weakness in the limbs accompanying vertigo.
4. Uncertain Diagnosis: When the cause of vertigo is unclear or if additional tests or evaluations are needed for a definitive diagnosis.
5. Specific Conditions: If there are underlying conditions such as Meniere’s disease, vestibular migraines, or vestibular neuritis that require specialized care and management.

 

For more details on vertigo and dizziness, feel free to contact our office at 732-280-7855. Coastal Ear, Nose, and Throat has top-notch doctors available to assist you. Coastal ENT provides convenient locations in Neptune, Manahawkin, and Holmdel, New Jersey, where patients can receive advanced medical care.