What is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is a benign inner ear disorder. Changes in the position of your head such as tilting your head backwards or sitting up from bed result in brief, intense vertigo (spinning sensation).

BPPV does not indicate a serious condition, and it typically resolves itself within a few days of the initial episode. (It might take several weeks for others.) The symptoms of BPPV are highly terrifying and can be hazardous, particularly in adults above 65 years of age. The dizziness of BPPV can result in falls, which are the most common reason for fractures.

Who is affected by BPPV?

BPPV can strike anyone of any age, though it's more frequent in those over 50. Roughly half of this group has at least one incidence of BPPV in a lifetime.

What are the signs and symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

Vertigo is the primary symptom of BPPV. The vertigo feeling can be mild or severe and last seconds or as long as 1 minute. It can be accompanied by other benign paroxysmal positional vertigo symptoms, such as:

Dizziness.
Lightheadedness.
Balance difficulties.
Nausea and vomiting.
Blurred vision.
Nystagmus (fast, involuntary eye movements).

Although BPPV typically affects only one ear at a time, it can affect both ears.

What causes BPPV?

BPPV is nearly always brought on by a change in head position. Symptoms can be detected when lying down or sitting up in bed. Some individuals can also detect symptoms when tilting their heads backward or to the side. Symptoms tend to be worse with age due to ordinary wear and tear of inner ear structures.

In some cases, BPPV may be a symptom of another inner ear condition, such as:

Labyrinthitis.
Vestibular neuritis.
Acoustic neuroma.

Additionally, BPPV may accompany migraines, or it may develop after a traumatic event — such as a fall, accident or sports injury.

How is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo diagnosed?

Your doctor can diagnose BPPV during an office visit. They'll perform a physical examination and ask about your symptoms and medical history.

BPPV is possible in children, but it's uncommon.

What is the quickest way to get rid of BPPV?

The best benign paroxysmal positional vertigo treatments are physical therapy exercises. These exercises aim to relocate the calcium carbonate particles from your semicircular canals back to your utricle. There, the particles resorb more readily and don't produce bothersome symptoms.

You may also take medication for motion sickness to make yourself feel better. However, you should not take such medications for extended periods.

Does BPPV resolve on its own?

Yes. In most cases, BPPV resolves on its own at some point. But it can recur. If it recurs, your doctor can advise you on controlling your symptoms when they recur.

How do I prevent my risk for BPPV?

You can't stop BPPV from developing, but you can treat it by doing particle repositioning exercises. To cut your risk of BPPV due to trauma, always wear a helmet when you're biking, playing sports or engaging in other activities of this nature.

What will happen if I have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

The good news is that BPPV doesn't mean a severe health issue. Nevertheless, managing your symptoms is frightening and annoying. Your doctor can show you how to perform BPPV exercises at home so that you can treat your symptoms when trouble first begins.

How long does BPPV last?

Most BPPV episodes only last 1 to 2 minutes. Your symptoms might be mild, or they might be so bad that you vomit. You might even become unsteady when you stand or walk.

When should I see my doctor?

If you've had a BPPV episode, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. They can show you physical therapy exercises to minimize your symptoms.

Call a doctor immediately if you experience dizziness, a bad headache, chest pain or an abnormal heartbeat.

Why Choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) Treatment in Lucknow, India. We have experienced team of ENT specialists who provide accurate diagnosis, advanced repositioning manoeuvres, and customised vestibular rehabilitation for patients suffering from positional vertigo, dizziness, and balance disorders.