Vertigo& dizziness.

What it is

Vertigo is the feeling that you or the room are spinning. One of its most common causes is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), in which tiny crystals in the inner ear move into the wrong place and cause brief, intense spinning when the head changes position. BPPV can often be treated with specific repositioning manoeuvres. Other causes of dizziness, from the inner ear, the neck or general health, may need different treatment or a medical opinion, so the assessment matters.

How we treat it

1. 01A careful history and examination to identify the likely cause of the dizziness, and to check for signs that need a doctor first.
2. 02Positional tests to confirm BPPV and which part of the inner ear is involved.
3. 03Repositioning manoeuvres to move the crystals back into place, where BPPV is confirmed.
4. 04Balance and gaze exercises to help the brain readjust and reduce lingering unsteadiness.
5. 05Treatment of the neck where it is contributing to symptoms.

When to see a doctor first. Call emergency services or see a doctor urgently if dizziness comes with a sudden severe headache, double vision, slurred speech, facial drooping, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, difficulty walking, chest pain, or fainting. These can be signs of a stroke or another serious problem.