One of the most common ear conditions I see in my office is patients suffering from vertigo. They often describe vertigo as a sensation of dizziness or spinning, a feeling of falling, lightheadedness or feeling woozy, visual blurring and disorientation. Sometimes, it may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and/or sweating.
Pinpointing the cause of vertigo is complicated because there are over 70 different causes of the condition. Other medical conditions such as ear infections, blood pressure changes, and vision problems may contribute to the disorder. Migraines are also a very common cause of vertigo (migraine-associated vertigo), which may exist even without the typical headaches. Some medications may also contribute to these inner ear problems.
National Public Radio (NPR) recently aired an informative segment on a form of vertigo called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV. About 20 percent of all dizziness is caused by loose crystals — or ear rocks — in the inner ear. The NPR segment does an excellent job of explaining this condition, and the latest most effective treatment. Called the Epley maneuver, it uses a series of simple movements to reposition the rocks out of the ear canal. We have been using this treatment with great success since our practice has been in existence. But remember, not all vertigo is BPPV and the Epley maneuver treats only BPPV. Pinpointing the cause of your vertigo is important. Help is available, but only after diagnosis by a qualified professional.
Read the full NPR story about BPPV.