Vertigo
This distinctive type of dizziness is described as the sudden sensation of feeling like you are spinning, or that the world is twirling around you. This feeling can last for seconds, hours, or even days at a time. This type of dizziness may be mild, but it can also be so severe that it impacts your ability to go about your daily activities.
Some other symptoms associated with vertigo can include swaying, light-headedness, loss of balance, and nausea.
If you want to know what to do when the room starts spinning, read on to learn about some common causes of dizziness, and what treatments for vertigo are available.
What causes vertigo?
Vertigo may be a symptom of a problem with the vestibular system, which can typically be divided into two categories:
- Peripheral vertigo, which may be caused by problems in the inner ear, and
- Central vertigo, which may be a result of issues in the brain or central nervous system.
There are several medical conditions that can cause vertigo, including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) – tiny calcium carbonate crystals in your inner ear can break free and cause disorientation when turning your head or looking up or down
- Labyrinthitis or neuritis – an inner ear infection that causes irritation and swelling, which may result in sudden hearing loss and symptoms of vertigo
- Meniere’s Disease – a disorder that triggers a transient buildup of fluid and pressure in the inner ear, causing symptoms that may include spinning sensations, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and hearing loss
- Concussions – brain injuries caused by an external force, such as a hit to the head, whiplash, or falls. See our concussion resource for more details.
- Vestibular Migraines – severe headaches that may be accompanied by dizziness and balance issues
- Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) – this may be triggered by an initial event of vertigo, but over time the spinning will resolve and a person is left with a near-constant feeling of rocking, sway, or unsteadiness. This feeling is often worse in busy motion-rich environments like grocery stores, shopping malls, or large outdoor spaces.
If you are facing any of the above issues or symptoms, visit a health care provider for guidance with your symptoms!
How is vertigo treated?
If you are suffering from any of the signs and symptoms described above, fortunately, there is help. No matter the cause of your specific issue, a vestibular rehabilitation specialist can help diagnose and provide proven treatments, helping you find relief and manage your episodes of vertigo.
Your vestibular therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your vestibular system. At the Surrey Neuroplasticity Clinic, we use state-of-the-art technologies like the ICS Goggles and the NeuroCom Sensory Organization Test to objectively measure your balance and vestibular functions. Once a thorough evaluation has been completed, your therapist will provide a customized treatment plan and exercise program to meet your specific needs. Depending on your condition, your vertigo issue may be alleviated in just a few treatment sessions!
Are you struggling with wooziness and light-headedness? Worried about falling and risking injuries? Don’t let vertigo interfere with your quality of life. Visiting a vestibular rehabilitation professional will help you control your vertigo, stop the spinning, and get you back to the things you enjoy!
Learn more about our services:
Contact Surrey Neuroplasticity Clinic for more information.