Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?

BPPV is one of the most common causes of vertigo. It occurs when tiny crystals in the inner ear move into the wrong position. When you change the position of your head, these crystals shift and trigger brief episodes of spinning. BPPV can be extremely uncomfortable, but it is not dangerous and can be easily treated if diagnosed.

Symptoms

• Brief but intense episodes of vertigo when turning the head

• Dizziness often triggered when looking up or bending down

• Nausea during episodes

• Symptoms lasting seconds to less than a minute

• No hearing loss

Treatment

BPPV is treated with simple head positioning maneuvers performed in office. These movements help guide the crystals back to where they belong. Many patients feel better after one or two treatments with physical therapy.