Vertigo

Vertigo is usually caused by a problem within your inner ear, often when calcium crystals become detached from the utricle and enter the semicircular canals. This is commonly due to head trauma. An inner ear infection can also trigger vertigo.

Symptoms

  • Spinning sensation
  • Swaying
  • Loss of balance
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Hearing loss

Causes of Vertigo

  • BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo): The most common cause of vertigo. Small calcium crystals (otoconia) are dislodged and enter the semicircular canals, sending incorrect signals to the brain about head movement.
  • Labyrinthitis: A viral (or sometimes bacterial) infection of the inner ear that causes inflammation of the 8th cranial nerve, leading to dizziness, nausea, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
  • Menière’s Disease: A rare condition caused by fluid build-up in the inner ear chambers that affects both hearing and balance. There is no known cure.

FAQs

Vertigo is the sensation that everything around you is spinning. This affects your balance and often causes nausea.

Vertigo is commonly caused by issues in the inner ear. Trauma to the head can dislodge calcium crystals from the utricle into the semicircular canals, sending incorrect signals to the brain. Inner ear infections like labyrinthitis or problems with the vestibular system can also cause vertigo.

Vertigo attacks can last from a few minutes to several hours. Severe cases may persist for days, weeks, or even months. Always seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

The Dix-Hallpike manoeuvre can help identify the affected ear. Sit on a bed, turn your head 45 degrees to one side, and lie back quickly with your head hanging slightly off the edge. Repeat on the other side. Consult a healthcare professional before attempting this.

Treatments include antibiotics (if caused by infection), medications to ease nausea and dizziness, and repositioning manoeuvres like the Epley manoeuvre to move calcium crystals back to the utricle. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

You must inform the DVLA and your insurer if you experience sudden, unpredictable, or uncontrollable dizziness. This is a legal requirement to ensure safety.