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Are You at Risk for Vertigo? Key Factors That Increase Your Chances
Published: Oct 18, 2023
Vertigo can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your likelihood of experiencing this disorienting condition. Understanding these risk factors can help you take preventive steps.
Age: The Unavoidable Factor
As we get older, our risk of vertigo increases. This is partly due to natural age-related changes in the inner ear. Conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) become more common after age 50. While you can't stop aging, awareness can lead to earlier detection and treatment.
Head Injuries: A Lasting Impact
Experiencing a head injury, even a minor one, can increase your risk of vertigo. Trauma can disrupt the delicate structures of the inner ear or affect brain areas involved in balance. If you've had a concussion or other head injury, be aware that vertigo may develop later.
Certain Medical Conditions
Several health conditions are associated with a higher risk of vertigo. These include migraines, diabetes, high blood pressure, and multiple sclerosis. Ear infections or disorders like Meniere's disease also increase your chances. Managing these underlying conditions can help reduce vertigo risk.
Lifestyle Factors: What You Can Control
Some lifestyle choices can influence your vertigo risk. Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking have been linked to increased vertigo incidence. High-stress levels and lack of sleep may also play a role. Making healthy lifestyle changes could potentially lower your risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some forms may have a genetic component, but it's not typically inherited.
Women are slightly more likely to experience certain types of vertigo.
Some women experience increased dizziness during pregnancy.
Knowledge is Prevention
While some risk factors are beyond our control, understanding them empowers us to take proactive steps for our health.
References
- von Brevern M, et al. Epidemiology of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: a population based study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2007; 78:710-715.
- Neuhauser HK. The epidemiology of dizziness and vertigo. Handb Clin Neurol 2016; 137:67-82.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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