Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Causes
The organ of balance, located inside the inner ear, is the vestibular labyrinth. It includes loop-shaped structures (semicircular canals) that contain fluid and tiny, hair-like sensors that monitor the rotation of your head. These canals all attach to the utricle, where tiny granules or crystals of calcium carbonate (otoconia) are contained in. These particles are attached to sensors that help detect gravity and a person's back-and-forth motion. BPPV occurs when particles within the labyrinth loosen and float in the fluid. In certain positions they can disturb the nerve endings associated with balance, giving a spurious signal of movement and causing a brief sensation of spinning around. BPPV is most often a result of growing older. It can also occur after a blow to one's head. Less common causes of BPPV include a virus affecting the ear, or the combination of trauma to the ear during ear surgery and prolonged supine position (lying on your back) during the procedure. Doctors can usually determine the cause of BPPV. It may require a consultation with an ear, nose and throat specialist or a doctor who specializes in the brain and nervous system, or a neurologist. Sometimes, however, no cause can be determined. Other triggers of BPPV are changes in barometric pressure, lack of sleep, visual exposure to nearby moving objects, and tilting of the head.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Complications
Although BPPV can be uncomfortable, it rarely causes complications. In sever cases, persistent BPPV can cause the person to vomit frequently and may result to the person being dehydrated or at risk for it.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Definition
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), also known as benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV), is a condition caused by problems in the inner ear.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Symptoms and Signs
Patients suffering from BPPV may experience of dizziness, lightheadedness, unsteadiness, and a loss of balance. They may also complain of vertigo, where he feels as if his surroundings are spinning or moving. Patients may also complain of blurred vision, nausea, and also experience vomiting. The signs and symptoms of BPPV come and go, with episodes commonly lasting less than a minute. Episodes of BPPV can disappear for some time and then come back. Activities that bring about the symptoms of BPPV can vary from person to person, but are almost always brought on by a change in the position of the person's head. Abnormal rhythmic eye movements, or nystagmus, usually accompany BPPV. Although unlikely, it's possible to have BPPV in both ears, which is called bilateral BPPV.