Vertigo: When Your World Starts Spinning
Published: Sep 08, 2024
Vertigo is a dizzy sensation that makes you feel like you or your surroundings are spinning. It's more than just feeling a little woozy - vertigo can be quite disruptive to daily life.
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What Causes That Spinning Feeling?
Vertigo occurs when there's a problem with the vestibular system in your inner ear, which controls balance. Common causes include inner ear infections, migraines, or little calcium crystals that get loose in the ear canals. Less often, vertigo can be due to more serious issues like strokes or tumors affecting the brain.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
The main symptom of vertigo is a false sense of spinning or movement. This may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, headaches, or ringing in the ears. Some people also experience nystagmus - rapid, uncontrollable eye movements. Vertigo can last anywhere from a few seconds to several days.
When to Seek Medical Help
While vertigo is often harmless, you should see a doctor if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other neurological symptoms like slurred speech or weakness on one side. Sudden, severe vertigo with hearing loss is a medical emergency. Your doctor can perform tests to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly - vertigo specifically involves a spinning sensation.
Many cases resolve on their own or with treatment of the underlying cause.
BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) from inner ear crystals.
Key Takeaways
While vertigo can be unsettling, understanding its causes and symptoms can help you know when to seek care.
If you're experiencing vertigo symptoms, talk to Doctronic about potential causes and treatment options.Related Articles
References
Baloh RW. Vestibular Neuritis. N Engl J Med 2003; 348:1027-1032.
Furman JM, Cass SP. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. N Engl J Med 1999; 341:1590-1596.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.