Did you know that the symptoms of vertigo, dizziness and imbalance can be caused by issues in your inner ear?
Vertigo is a very common condition, affecting about 1 in 5 adults each year. In roughly 25% of cases, vertigo stems from problems within the inner ear—these are called vestibular disorders. Women are nearly twice as likely as men to experience vestibular vertigo, and the risk increases with age. The most common type of vestibular vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
What is Vertigo?
Our ears aren’t just for hearing—they also help us understand the position of our head and maintain our balance. Inside the inner ear are tiny structures that send signals to the brain about how our head is moving. This allows us to detect the direction and extent of head movements, even with our eyes closed—thanks to the movement of fluid inside these structures.
Two of these inner ear structures contain microscopic calcium crystals that help the brain detect gravity. When these crystals become dislodged—which happens for various reasons—they end up in one of three semicircular canals. If this happens, head movements can confuse the brain, triggering a sudden, spinning sensation known as vertigo.
How is BPPV Different to Vertigo?
BPPV has distinct features that set it apart from other types of vertigo. Episodes are typically brought on by changes in head position, the sensation often feels like the room is spinning, and symptoms are usually brief, lasting less than a minute. Although the symptoms can be intense and unsettling, the good news is that vertigo can often be effectively treated by a physiotherapist using specific head movements to reposition the crystals.
Treatment Options
It’s important to get a thorough assessment if you’re experiencing vertigo, as other conditions can present with similar symptoms. These include Meniere’s disease, vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, cervicogenic dizziness, side effects from medication, and other serious medical issues.
If you’re dealing with any type of vertigo, dizziness or imbalance, book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists to have your symptoms professionally assessed and managed.
