Vertigo is a false sensation of movement, a feeling that you, or the world around you, is spinning or tilting when you are completely still. It is caused by disruptions to the vestibular system, which includes the inner ear, the nerve pathways connecting it to the brain, and the brain itself.
Vertigo attacks can vary in severity: from so mild that you can barely notice to so severe that it impacts your ability to perform everyday tasks. The length of the attacks can also vary from a few seconds to days and, in extreme cases, even weeks.
Dizziness is a broad term that covers many sensations, including lightheadedness and unsteadiness; vertigo is a specific type of dizziness characterised by a false perception of spinning or movement. It can be hard to differentiate between vertigo and dizziness, and the two terms are often used interchangeably; however, they are not exactly the same. Most of us have experienced dizziness before, from things as simple as dehydration, low blood sugar or alcohol consumption.
The symptoms of vertigo in adults may vary from case to case depending on the type of vertigo experienced, but some of the most common symptoms include:
Some people may find that certain activities or movements can trigger a vertigo attack. Identifying any potential triggers, such as bending over or looking up, can be useful as you learn how to deal with vertigo symptoms.
The most common cause is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which accounts for around 20% of all vertigo cases. Other frequent causes include Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuronitis, and labyrinthitis. Central causes such as migraines, stroke, and multiple sclerosis are less common but more serious.
Common causes of peripheral vertigo are issues affecting the inner ear, including:
Central vertigo is caused by disruptions to the brain or spinal cord, including:
There are also lifestyle and environmental factors that can trigger vertigo:
As diagnosing vertigo may not be as straightforward as some other common ear conditions, your health professional may recommend a suite of tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
In addition to a thorough examination of your medical history, some tests that may be recommended to assist in a vertigo diagnosis include:
When attending an appointment to investigate your vertigo diagnosis, it’s a good idea to have some notes on hand detailing when the symptoms started occurring, how often they occur, how long the symptoms last and any foods or actions that you believe may trigger an attack.
Vertigo treatment depends on the underlying cause, so an accurate diagnosis is the important first step. Many people with peripheral vertigo, particularly BPPV, respond well to at-home exercises and see significant improvement within days. Others, especially those with conditions like Ménière's disease or central vertigo, may require professional treatment to manage symptoms effectively.
For many people with BPPV, home-based treatments can resolve or significantly reduce symptoms without a clinic visit. The following options are safe to try at home, though you should seek professional advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
When home management is not enough, or when vertigo is linked to an underlying condition such as Ménière’s disease, a healthcare professional may recommend one of the following treatments.
While some cases of vertigo resolve without treatment, there are situations where seeing a doctor promptly is important. You should seek medical attention if:
The type of vertigo you experience and the accompanying symptoms will help inform your healthcare professional of the best care plan for your individual needs.
It’s also worth noting that some people who experience vertigo may find that the condition improves over time without medical intervention, while others experience repeated episodes that require some form of vertigo treatment.
When attending an appointment to investigate your vertigo diagnosis, it’s a good idea to have some notes on hand detailing when the symptoms started occurring, how often they occur, how long the symptoms last, and any foods or actions you believe may trigger an attack.
Vertigo can be an overwhelming experience, but with the right treatment, you can manage it effectively. If you’ve been experiencing vertigo attacks and want to take the next step in your hearing health journey, book an appointment with Bay Audiology, and our hearing specialists will help you find a solution that works for you.
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