Our Orlando ENT doctors enjoy sharing issues that can be treated at our local office. BPPV, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo affects plenty of America. Follow along this series to learn about BPPV symptoms.
What is BPPV?:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is one of the most common causes of vertigo. Vertigo is the sudden sensation that you are spinning. It may also feel like the inside of the head is spinning.
BPPV can cause short episodes of mild to intense dizziness. It is most often triggered by specific changes in a one’s head’s position. This sensation is commonly felt after standing up too quickly after lying down for a long period of time.
Symptoms of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo:
- dizziness
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of balance
- the feeling that your surroundings are spinning
Symptoms of BPPV usually come and go. They are not usually long-lasting. On average, the symptoms last for less than one minute. Episodes of BPPV may disappear for months and reoccur months later.
What brings on benign paroxysmal positional vertigo varies from patient to patient. The most important key fact is the position of the head, hence the name. Some people may be affected so badly, simply walking or standing still can bring upon the sensation of dizziness.
When to seek medical attention:
Positional paroxysmal positional vertigo is not an issue unless it affects a person’s safety. For example, if a person cannot walk without an aid and they cannot remember to use it, a falling risk may be greatly present.
Balance aids include the following items:
- a walker
- cane
- crutch
- hand rail
If you have fallen due to BPPV, seek medical attention. Speak with your doctors about ways to prevent vertigo. It may be best to walk with an aid to prevent future falls.
When to seek emergency care:
It is best to seek emergency care when a person experiences vertigo along with any of the following:
- fever
- hearing loss
- numbness or tingling
- falling or difficulty walking
- loss of consciousness
- leg or arm weakness
- double vision
- new, different or severe headaches
- loss of vision
- leg weakness
- arm weakness
These signs and symptoms may indicate much more serious medical issues which require immediate medical attention.
Come back next week as we share causes and treatments for vertigo. We will also be sharing other types of vertigo soon. If you experience vertigo more than once a week, inform your doctor, and make an appointment for a physical ENT exam.
Staff Writer
