Vertigo Common Causes

What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a false sensation of spinning or movement, either of oneself or the surrounding environment. It is often caused by issues in the inner ear or brain's balance centers and can range from mild to debilitating. Early diagnosis is key to identifying the underlying cause and managing symptoms effectively.

Types of Vertigo

Vertigo is classified based on its origin, with different causes requiring specific treatments:

Degrees of Severity

The impact of vertigo varies based on its frequency and intensity:

• Mild: Occasional, brief episodes with minimal disruption to daily activities.
• Moderate: Frequent episodes causing balance issues or nausea, manageable with treatment.
• Severe: Persistent or intense vertigo significantly affecting mobility and quality of life.

Signs and Symptoms of Vertigo

Vertigo can manifest with various symptoms, impacting daily functioning. Recognizing these signs is crucial for timely diagnosis.

Common Warning Signs

• A spinning sensation, as if you or the environment is moving.
• Loss of balance or unsteadiness, increasing fall risk.
• Nausea or vomiting triggered by dizziness episodes.
• Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus) during vertigo attacks.
• Hearing loss or tinnitus, especially in Meniere’s disease.
• Headaches or pressure in the head, often linked to migraines.
• Sweating, lightheadedness, or anxiety during episodes.

Common Causes of Vertigo

Vertigo can result from various conditions affecting the inner ear or central nervous system. Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment. Common causes include:

Inner Ear Disorders

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Dislodged calcium crystals in the inner ear triggering brief vertigo episodes.
• Meniere’s Disease: Fluid buildup causing vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
• Vestibular Neuritis: Viral inflammation of the vestibular nerve causing prolonged vertigo.
• Labyrinthitis: Inner ear infection leading to vertigo and hearing issues.

Neurological and Other Causes

• Vestibular Migraine: Migraines triggering vertigo episodes.
• Head Injury: Trauma affecting balance centers in the ear or brain.
• Acoustic Neuroma: Benign tumor on the vestibular nerve causing vertigo and hearing loss.
• Cerebrovascular Issues: Stroke or transient ischemic attacks affecting brain balance areas.

Prevention and Balance Health

While not all causes of vertigo can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk or severity of episodes.

Maintaining Balance Health

• Avoid sudden head movements to prevent triggering BPPV episodes.
• Manage underlying conditions like migraines or hypertension with medical guidance.
• Protect ears from infections by maintaining good ear hygiene.
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can exacerbate symptoms.
• Practice balance exercises, such as tai chi or yoga, to improve stability.
• Schedule regular ENT check-ups to monitor ear and balance health.
• Use protective gear during activities that risk head injury.

Treatment Options for Vertigo

At ENT Gurgaon, we offer specialized diagnostics and treatments, from repositioning maneuvers to advanced procedures, to manage vertigo effectively and improve quality of life.