Health A to Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Vertigo

Vertigo is the sensation of feeling off balance. You experience dizzy spells and might sense that you are spinning or everything around you is spinning. See a doctor if it keeps reoccurring back or is affecting your daily life. 

Signs

If you undergo, Vertigo, you have a sensation like you or everything around you are circling, affecting your balance. It’s more than just the dizzy sensation.

A vertigo episode can last from a few seconds to hours. If you undergo severe Vertigo, it can last for weeks or months.

Other signs that may accompany vertigo include:

  • Feeling nauseated
  • Sweating
  • Abnormal or jerking eye movements (nystagmus)
  • Headache
  • Vomiting
  • Ringing in the ears or hearing loss 

Causes of Vertigo

The cause of Vertigo is mainly an inner ear problem.

The most common causes include the following: 

BPPV

Vertigo
Benign paroxysmal positional Vertigo happens when the tiny calcium particles get dislodged from their normal position and accumulate in the inner ear; the inner ear signals the brain and helps you keep your balance. 

Meniere’s disease

Meniere’s disease is an ear disorder concerning the inner part caused by fluid buildup and changing pressure in the ear. It can cause outbreaks of tinnitus and hearing loss. 

Less often, Vertigo may be associated with the following:

  • Head or neck injury
  • Brain problems such as stroke or tumor
  • Certain medications that cause ear damage
  • Migraine headaches 

Self-care

You can do these things to ease vertigo symptoms.

Do’s

  • Lay still in a tranquil, dark room to lessen the spinning feeling
  • Movement your head carefully and gradually during daily activities
  • Sit up straight away when you discern a dizzy sensation
  • Utilize a walking stick if you’re at risk of tumbling
  • sleep with your head slightly raised from the surface on two or more pillow
  • Relax and remain calm – anxiety can make Vertigo worse

Don’t

  • Do not flex over to pick things – squat to lower yourself rather
  • Do not rack your neck – for example, while getting up to a high shelf

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD 
Page last reviewed: 04 October 2022