Vertigo is a common symptom that can be caused by various underlying conditions affecting the inner ear or the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation.
Symptoms
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Vertigo can be a very distressing symptom. It can make it difficult to walk, drive, or perform other everyday activities. In some cases, vertigo can be so severe that it can lead to falls and other injuries.
Vertigo is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
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Nausea and vomiting. Sweating
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Difficulty maintaining balance
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Unsteadiness or swaying sensation
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Visual disturbances, such as nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
Causes
Some of the most common causes of vertigo include:
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Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): BPPV is a condition in which tiny crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the wrong place. This can cause brief episodes of vertigo when the head is moved in certain positions.
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Labyrinthitis: Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear. It can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
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Meniere's disease: Meniere's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
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Migraine: Migraine is a neurological disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, including vertigo.
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Stroke: A stroke is a sudden loss of blood flow to part of the brain. It can damage brain tissue and cause a variety of symptoms, including vertigo.
Treatment
Vertigo can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Seeking medical evaluation and proper diagnosis is crucial to identify the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Many cases of vertigo can be effectively managed or alleviated with medical intervention and lifestyle adjustments.
The treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause. It may include:
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Epley Maneuver. A series of head movements performed by a healthcare provider to treat BPPV.
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Medications. Depending on the cause, medications to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, or treat underlying conditions might be prescribed.
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Vestibular Rehabilitation. A form of physical therapy that helps improve balance and reduce vertigo symptoms by stimulating the vestibular system.
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Lifestyle Changes. Adjustments to diet, stress management, and avoiding triggers can help manage certain types of vertigo.
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Precautions. During a vertigo episode, it's important to avoid activities that could be dangerous if balance is compromised, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.
Management
If you have vertigo, there are a number of things you can do to manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of falls:
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Avoid sudden movements.
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Sit or lie down if you feel dizzy.
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Use a cane or walker for support if needed.
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Make sure your home is well-lit and free of clutter.
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Avoid driving or operating machinery when you are experiencing vertigo.