What is Vertigo? Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a feeling that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving. Often, this sensation is not related to actual movement. Instead, it is a symptom of a problem in the inner ear or brain. Many people confuse vertigo with simple dizziness. However, vertigo usually feels like a spinning or tilting sensation. Because vertigo can affect balance, it may increase the risk of falls. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vertigo is a common reason for doctor visits, especially in adults.

Common Symptoms of Vertigo

Vertigo can cause several symptoms. While the main symptom is a spinning feeling, other signs may appear. For example, you might notice:

A sense that you or the room is moving

Loss of balance or unsteadiness

Nausea or vomiting

Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Headache

Abnormal eye movements

Sometimes, these symptoms come and go. In other cases, they may last for hours or even days. Because vertigo can be mild or severe, it is important to pay attention to how you feel.

Causes of Vertigo

Vertigo has many possible causes. Most often, it starts in the inner ear, which helps control balance. Some common causes include:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is the most common cause. It happens when tiny crystals in the inner ear move out of place.

Meniere’s Disease: This condition causes fluid buildup in the ear, leading to vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears.

Vestibular Neuritis: This is an infection or inflammation of the inner ear nerves.

Head Injury: Trauma can damage the inner ear or brain, causing vertigo.

Migraine: Some people experience vertigo during or before a migraine headache.

Less often, vertigo may be linked to stroke, tumors, or certain medications. Because causes vary, it is important to find out what is behind your vertigo.

How Vertigo is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose vertigo. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they perform a physical exam. Often, they check your balance and eye movements. In some cases, special tests may be needed. For example, your doctor might order:

Hearing tests

Balance tests

Imaging scans, such as MRI or CT

Blood tests to rule out other conditions

Because vertigo can have many causes, a careful diagnosis is key. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), early diagnosis can help prevent complications.

Treatment Options for Vertigo

Vertigo treatment options depend on the cause. Sometimes, vertigo goes away on its own. However, many people need treatment to feel better. Some common treatments include:

Physical therapy: Exercises, such as the Epley maneuver, can help move crystals in the ear back to their place.

Medications: Doctors may prescribe drugs to reduce nausea, dizziness, or inflammation.

Injections or surgery: In rare cases, these may be needed for severe or long-lasting vertigo.

Lifestyle changes: Avoiding triggers, such as sudden head movements, can help manage vertigo.

Because each person is different, your doctor will suggest the best vertigo treatment options for you.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

While not all cases of vertigo can be prevented, some steps may help reduce your risk. For example, you can:

Move slowly when getting up or turning your head

Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco

Manage stress with relaxation techniques

Use handrails and remove tripping hazards at home

Additionally, regular check-ups with your doctor can help catch problems early. Because prevention is not always possible, knowing how to manage vertigo is important.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, vertigo can signal a serious problem. You should see a doctor if you:

Have sudden, severe vertigo

Experience chest pain, fainting, or trouble speaking

Notice weakness, numbness, or vision changes

Have frequent or long-lasting vertigo episodes

Because early treatment can prevent complications, do not wait if you have these symptoms. An ENT specialist can help find the cause and suggest the right treatment.

In summary, vertigo can be managed with the right care. Consult an ENT specialist for personalized guidance on vertigo.