Vertigo

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Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a spinning or whirling sensation. It is often caused by a disturbance in the inner ear or the balance centers of the brain.

Common causes for vertigo: 

Inner Ear Causes: The most common cause of vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and affect the balance signals. Other inner ear conditions, such as Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, and labyrinthitis, can also lead to vertigo.

Central Nervous System Causes: Vertigo can sometimes be associated with issues in the central nervous system, such as migraines, vestibular migraines, or certain neurological conditions. These cases often involve additional symptoms, such as headache, visual disturbances, or numbness.

Symptoms and Triggers: Vertigo is characterized by a spinning sensation that can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, difficulty with balance, unsteadiness, and a feeling of disorientation. Common triggers for vertigo episodes include changes in head position, sudden movements, lying down, or getting up from bed.

How can we Assess and Diagnose vertigo? 

Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the underlying cause of vertigo. A healthcare professional, such as a doctor or an otolaryngologist, will typically conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a medical history review, physical examination, balance and hearing tests, and possibly imaging studies.

Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Canalith repositioning manoeuvres, such as the Epley manoeuvre or the Semont manoeuvre, are commonly used in the treatment of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). These manoeuvres involve a series of head and body movements to reposition the displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear, relieving vertigo symptoms.

Balance Training: Physiotherapists can guide individuals with vertigo through balance training exercises to improve their stability and reduce dizziness. These exercises focus on improving strength, coordination, and postural control. They can help individuals regain their confidence in performing daily activities and reduce the risk of falls.

Gaze Stabilization Exercises: Gaze stabilization exercises aim to improve the ability to maintain clear vision while the head is in motion. These exercises help retrain the brain to process visual information accurately and minimize dizziness or vertigo symptoms associated with head movements.

Education and Lifestyle Modifications: Physiotherapists can provide education about vertigo, its causes, and strategies for managing symptoms. They may offer advice on lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding triggering positions or movements, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing stress levels, and incorporating relaxation techniques.

Individualized Treatment Plans: A physiotherapist will assess your specific condition and tailor the treatment plan to your needs. They will consider factors such as the underlying cause of vertigo, your overall health, and any other coexisting conditions. The treatment plan may involve a combination of exercises, manual therapy techniques, education, and ongoing support.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring: Physiotherapists can provide ongoing support throughout your vertigo management journey. They can monitor your progress, make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed, and provide guidance on self-management techniques to help you better cope with vertigo symptoms.

Lifestyle Modifications: Certain lifestyle modifications can help manage vertigo symptoms. This may include avoiding triggers that provoke vertigo episodes, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, reducing stress levels, and practicing relaxation techniques. It is also important to exercise caution when performing activities that require balance, especially during episodes of vertigo.

Ongoing Management: For chronic or recurrent vertigo, a multidisciplinary approach involving ongoing care and support may be necessary. This can involve regular follow-ups with healthcare professionals, ongoing physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to optimize overall well-being and manage symptoms.