How long does it take for dizziness to go away. Vertigo Duration: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment Options

29.01.202213.07.2023 by alexxlab

How long does vertigo typically last. What are the common causes of vertigo. Which treatments can help alleviate vertigo symptoms. When should you seek medical attention for vertigo.

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Understanding Vertigo: More Than Just Dizziness

Vertigo is often misunderstood as simply feeling dizzy, but it’s a distinct sensation that can significantly impact daily life. Unlike general dizziness, which may cause a feeling of lightheadedness, vertigo creates the illusion that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when they’re actually still. This disorienting experience can range from mildly annoying to severely debilitating, depending on its cause and duration.

Is vertigo a standalone condition? No, vertigo is actually a symptom of various underlying conditions rather than a disease itself. Identifying the root cause is crucial for effective treatment and management of vertigo episodes.

Key Symptoms of Vertigo

Sensation of spinning or tilting
Nausea and vomiting
Balance problems
Sweating
Abnormal eye movements
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Temporary hearing loss

Can vertigo symptoms vary in intensity? Yes, vertigo episodes can range from brief, mild sensations to severe, prolonged periods of disorientation. The severity often depends on the underlying cause and individual factors.

Duration of Vertigo Episodes: From Seconds to Days

The duration of vertigo episodes can vary significantly, ranging from a few fleeting seconds to several days in extreme cases. However, most commonly, vertigo episodes last from a few seconds to several minutes. Understanding the typical duration associated with different causes can help in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Common Vertigo Causes and Their Durations

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Usually lasts less than one minute per episode
Meniere’s Disease: Severe episodes can last hours or even days
Inner Ear Inflammation or Infection: May persist until the underlying issue resolves
Vestibular Neuritis: Can last several days to weeks
Stroke or Head Injury: May result in chronic or long-term vertigo

Do all vertigo episodes follow the same pattern? No, the duration and intensity of vertigo can vary greatly depending on its cause. Some people may experience brief, intense episodes, while others might have milder but more persistent symptoms.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): The Most Common Culprit

BPPV is the most frequent cause of vertigo, characterized by brief episodes triggered by specific changes in head position. This condition occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals, disrupting the normal fluid movement that helps maintain balance.

Characteristics of BPPV

Short duration: Typically less than one minute per episode
Triggered by head movements: Such as looking up, rolling over in bed, or bending down
Recurrent nature: Episodes may come and go over time
Generally not associated with hearing problems or tinnitus

How is BPPV diagnosed? BPPV is often diagnosed through a simple in-office test called the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, which involves moving the head in specific positions to trigger symptoms. This helps healthcare providers confirm the diagnosis and determine which ear is affected.

Meniere’s Disease: When Vertigo Lasts Longer

Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that can cause severe, prolonged episodes of vertigo. This condition is characterized by a buildup of fluid in the inner ear, leading to a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life.

Key Features of Meniere’s Disease

Vertigo episodes lasting hours or even days
Fluctuating hearing loss
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear
Nausea and vomiting during severe episodes

Is Meniere’s disease curable? While there’s no cure for Meniere’s disease, various treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of vertigo episodes. These may include dietary changes, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions.

Inner Ear Problems: A Common Source of Vertigo

Many vertigo cases stem from issues within the inner ear, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. Infections, inflammation, or other disturbances in this delicate system can lead to persistent vertigo symptoms until the underlying problem is resolved.

Types of Inner Ear Problems Causing Vertigo

Labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear labyrinth
Vestibular neuritis: Inflammation of the vestibular nerve
Acoustic neuroma: A non-cancerous tumor on the vestibular nerve
Perilymph fistula: Abnormal connection between the inner and middle ear

How long does vertigo from inner ear problems typically last? The duration can vary widely, from a few days to several weeks, depending on the specific condition and how quickly it’s treated. In some cases, symptoms may persist until the underlying issue is fully resolved.

Stroke and Head Injuries: When Vertigo Becomes Chronic

While less common, strokes and head injuries can lead to long-term or even permanent vertigo symptoms. These conditions can damage the areas of the brain responsible for processing balance and spatial orientation, resulting in chronic vertigo that may require ongoing management.

Vertigo as a Symptom of Stroke

Can be sudden and severe
Often accompanied by other neurological symptoms
May persist long after the initial stroke event
Requires immediate medical attention

Can vertigo be the only symptom of a stroke? While it’s possible for vertigo to be the primary symptom of a stroke, especially in cases involving the brainstem or cerebellum, it’s usually accompanied by other neurological signs. Any sudden, severe vertigo should be evaluated promptly to rule out serious conditions like stroke.

Treating Vertigo: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions

The treatment approach for vertigo depends largely on its underlying cause. While some cases may resolve on their own or with simple home remedies, others may require medical intervention. A comprehensive treatment plan often involves a combination of strategies to address both the symptoms and the root cause.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes

Epley maneuver for BPPV
Staying hydrated
Avoiding triggers like caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco
Practicing relaxation techniques
Maintaining good sleep hygiene

Medical Treatments

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy
Medications (antihistamines, anti-nausea drugs, diuretics)
Canalith repositioning procedures
In rare cases, surgical interventions

Are there any natural supplements that can help with vertigo? Some people find relief from vertigo symptoms using natural supplements like ginger, ginkgo biloba, or vitamin D. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as these can interact with medications or have side effects.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Vertigo

While many cases of vertigo are benign and self-limiting, certain situations warrant immediate medical evaluation. Recognizing the signs that indicate a potentially serious underlying condition is crucial for timely intervention and proper treatment.

Red Flags for Vertigo

Sudden, severe vertigo with no apparent trigger
Vertigo accompanied by severe headache, especially if it’s a new type of headache
Vertigo with neurological symptoms like vision changes, weakness, or numbness
Vertigo that persists for more than a few hours without improvement
Vertigo associated with a recent head injury
Vertigo in someone with risk factors for stroke (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking)

Should you go to the emergency room for vertigo? If you experience severe, sudden vertigo accompanied by any of the red flag symptoms mentioned above, it’s advisable to seek emergency medical care. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.

Living with Vertigo: Coping Strategies and Long-term Management

For individuals dealing with recurrent or chronic vertigo, developing effective coping strategies is essential for maintaining quality of life. While treatment can often reduce the frequency and severity of episodes, learning to manage symptoms when they do occur can help minimize their impact on daily activities.

Tips for Managing Vertigo in Daily Life

Create a safe home environment by removing tripping hazards
Use assistive devices like a cane or walker if balance is significantly affected
Practice stress reduction techniques, as stress can exacerbate symptoms
Keep a vertigo diary to identify triggers and patterns
Plan activities around your symptom patterns when possible
Educate family and friends about your condition and how they can help during episodes

Can lifestyle changes help prevent vertigo episodes? Yes, for many people, certain lifestyle modifications can help reduce the frequency of vertigo episodes. These may include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, staying well-hydrated, limiting salt intake (especially for those with Meniere’s disease), and avoiding known triggers like certain head movements or dietary items.

The Importance of Vestibular Rehabilitation

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of physical therapy that can be highly effective in managing chronic vertigo. This therapy aims to retrain the brain to process balance information more effectively, reducing vertigo symptoms and improving overall function.

Benefits of Vestibular Rehabilitation

Improved balance and reduced risk of falls
Decreased dizziness and vertigo symptoms
Enhanced ability to perform daily activities
Reduced anxiety related to vertigo
Potential reduction in medication dependence

How long does vestibular rehabilitation take to show results? The duration and effectiveness of VRT can vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of vertigo. Some people may see improvements within a few weeks, while others might require several months of therapy. Consistency and adherence to the prescribed exercises are key factors in achieving optimal results.

The Future of Vertigo Treatment: Emerging Therapies and Research

As our understanding of the vestibular system and the mechanisms behind vertigo continues to evolve, new treatment approaches are being developed and tested. These emerging therapies offer hope for more effective management of vertigo, especially for those with difficult-to-treat or chronic cases.

Promising Areas of Research

Gene therapy for inherited vestibular disorders
Advanced imaging techniques for more precise diagnosis
Virtual reality-based rehabilitation programs
Targeted drug delivery systems for inner ear disorders
Neuromodulation techniques to regulate vestibular function

Will there ever be a cure for all types of vertigo? While a universal cure for all types of vertigo is unlikely due to the diverse causes of the condition, ongoing research is continually improving our ability to treat and manage vertigo more effectively. The goal is to develop more targeted, personalized treatments that can provide better symptom control and improved quality of life for those affected by vertigo.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Vertigo Management

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being explored as a tool to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of vertigo. AI algorithms can analyze complex patterns in vestibular test results, helping to identify subtle abnormalities that might be missed by human observers. This technology has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and guide more personalized treatment plans.

Potential Applications of AI in Vertigo Care

Automated analysis of vestibular function tests
Predictive models for vertigo episode occurrence
Personalized treatment recommendation systems
Remote monitoring of vertigo symptoms and treatment response
Virtual reality-based rehabilitation programs guided by AI

How might AI change the way vertigo is managed in the future? As AI technologies continue to advance, we may see more precise and timely diagnoses of vertigo, leading to earlier interventions and better outcomes. AI-driven personalized treatment plans could help optimize therapy for each individual, potentially reducing the trial-and-error approach often needed to find effective treatments.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities of Vertigo

Vertigo, with its varying causes and durations, presents a complex challenge for both patients and healthcare providers. Understanding the underlying mechanisms, recognizing different types of vertigo, and being aware of available treatment options are crucial steps in effectively managing this disorienting condition.

While the duration of vertigo episodes can range from fleeting moments to persistent symptoms lasting days or even longer, advances in medical understanding and treatment approaches offer hope for improved management and quality of life for those affected. By working closely with healthcare providers, utilizing appropriate treatments, and adopting lifestyle strategies to minimize triggers, many individuals can successfully navigate life with vertigo.

As research continues to uncover new insights into vestibular function and dysfunction, the future holds promise for even more effective and targeted treatments for vertigo. From innovative rehabilitation techniques to cutting-edge medical interventions, the field of vertigo management is evolving rapidly, offering new possibilities for those seeking relief from this challenging condition.

Ultimately, the key to managing vertigo lies in a comprehensive, personalized approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes. By staying informed about the latest developments in vertigo research and treatment, individuals can take an active role in their care and work towards achieving the best possible outcomes in their journey with vertigo.

How Long Does Vertigo Last? Mild-to-Severe Symptom Duration

Vertigo isn’t a disease or a condition on its own but a symptom of an underlying condition. Identifying the cause of your vertigo can help find a treatment that works to prevent episodes from occuring.

Overview

Episodes of vertigo can last a few seconds, a few minutes, a few hours, or even a few days. In general, however, an episode of vertigo typically lasts just seconds to minutes.

Vertigo isn’t a disease or condition. Instead, it’s a symptom of a condition. Identifying the underlying cause of your vertigo can help you and your doctor find a treatment that works to prevent the episodes.

Vertigo is different from dizziness. This is because the sensations from vertigo make you feel like your surroundings are moving, or that you’re moving when you’re actually standing still. Dizziness typically causes you to feel woozy or lightheaded.

Vertigo episodes may come and go and cause sudden, severe episodes of disorientation. They can also be incredibly mild, or be chronic and last for longer periods of time.

Other symptoms of vertigo include:

feeling nauseated
sweating
vomiting
abnormal or unusual eye movements, such as jerking
loss of balance
ringing in the ears
hearing loss

The cause of your vertigo plays a big role in how long your symptoms will last.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV is one of the most common causes of vertigo. The average episode reoccurs but usually lasts for one minute or less.

Meniere’s disease

A severe episode of vertigo caused by Meniere’s disease can last for several hours or even days. This condition causes vertigo that can often cause vomiting, nausea, and hearing loss, as well as ringing in the ear.

Inner ear problems

Vertigo caused by inflammation or an infection in the inner ear may remain until the inflammation subsides. If you have any signs of inner ear problems, it’s important to talk to your doctor about treatment so they can get the vertigo under control. They’ll determine if there are any medications that may be right for the condition.

Stroke or head injury

Vertigo may be a permanent or semi-permanent state for some individuals. People who’ve had a stroke, head injury, or neck injury may experience long-term or chronic vertigo.

Other factors

There are other conditions and injuries that may cause episodes of vertigo. The length of your vertigo episode will depend on what that underlying cause is.

When you experience an episode of vertigo, it’s wise to practice these do’s and don’ts so you can stay safe and also reduce your chances of greater side effects or complications.

Get a diagnosis

If you haven’t already been diagnosed, see a doctor after you experience vertigo symptoms for the first time. Together, you and your doctor can review your symptoms and decide on a treatment plan that fits what you’re experiencing and what’s causing the symptoms.

Check out this list of vertigo-associated disorders for more information.

Sit somewhere safe

Take precautions to prevent injury as soon as you begin experiencing signs and symptoms of vertigo. The sensations you experience from an episode can be disorienting and may make you more likely to stumble or fall. This can lead to injury.

Get off the road

If you’re driving when a vertigo episode starts, pull over as soon as you’re able. Wait out the episode before you continue driving so you don’t put yourself and others at risk.

Begin home remedies

When vertigo symptoms start, your doctor may instruct you to perform self-care home remedies or physical therapy maneuvers to ease the symptoms. Do them as soon as you safely can.

Seek treatment

If vertigo is the result of a health complication you’re not treating, vertigo symptoms may become worse. You can begin to experience long-term health complications as a result of not treating the underlying cause for your vertigo.

Vertigo is bothersome, but it’s rarely a sign of a serious health problem. Treatment for vertigo aims to treat the underlying cause that’s producing the disorienting sensations in order to eliminate the symptoms. If a cause isn’t known, your doctor may also treat the symptoms of vertigo alone.

The most common treatments for vertigo include:

Home remedies

The majority of home remedies are designed to prevent or reduce the risk for a vertigo episode, but some can be used when the disorientation begins. These include:

trying acupuncture
avoiding caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol
staying hydrated
taking herbal supplements

Medications

Some medications may help stop severe vertigo episodes. The most commonly prescribed medications for vertigo are:

anti-nausea medicines, such as promethazine (Phenergan)
sedative medicines, such as diazepam (Valium)
antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

These medicines may be administered by mouth, patch, suppository, or IV. Both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription options are available.

Physical therapy maneuvers

Two main physical therapy maneuvers are used to treat symptoms of vertigo. Your doctor will work with you to learn the proper technique so you can perform them correctly. These maneuvers include:

Modified Epley maneuvers. The Epley maneuver is a type of treatment that uses head and body movements to encourage the inner ear to reabsorb any matter that’s floating in the inner ear and causing vertigo. The relief can be immediate, or it may take several days.
Vestibular rehabilitation exercises. Moving your head and body when you’re experiencing a vertigo episode may feel too difficult. Your doctor can teach you rehabilitation exercises that can help your brain adjust to the changes in the inner ear. These balancing techniques will help your eyes and other senses learn to cope with the disorientation.

Time

Waiting out the symptoms of vertigo may be the best option for some people. After all, vertigo can ease in a matter of hours, minutes, or even seconds. In those cases, you’re better off waiting for the body to correct itself than trying another treatment option.

If you experience episodes of vertigo, make an appointment to see your doctor. If you don’t already have a primary care provider, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. Describe what you’re experiencing, how long the episodes last, and what makes them end, if you’ve used any type of treatment. Your doctor will perform a physical exam. They may also conduct several tests to check your eyes, hearing, and balance.

If those results aren’t enough for a conclusive diagnosis, your doctor may request some imaging tests to look at your brain. An MRI can give your doctor a detailed image of your brain.

You should seek emergency medical help if you experience vertigo with any of the following:

a severe headache
a high fever
weakness in your arms or legs
inability or trouble walking, speaking, hearing, or seeing
passing out
chest pain

It’s important to talk with your doctor any time you experience vertigo. They can work with you to understand the underlying cause and find treatments that can both prevent vertigo attacks and ease them if and when they occur.

Fortunately, most of the underlying causes of vertigo aren’t serious. They can be treated easily, which will eliminate vertigo episodes. If the underlying cause can’t be treated, your doctor can work with you to reduce disorientation and hopefully prevent future complications.

How Long Does Vertigo Last? Mild-to-Severe Symptom Duration

Overview

Episodes of vertigo can last a few seconds, a few minutes, a few hours, or even a few days. In general, however, an episode of vertigo typically lasts just seconds to minutes.

Vertigo episodes may come and go and cause sudden, severe episodes of disorientation. They can also be incredibly mild, or be chronic and last for longer periods of time.

Other symptoms of vertigo include:

feeling nauseated
sweating
vomiting
abnormal or unusual eye movements, such as jerking
loss of balance
ringing in the ears
hearing loss

The cause of your vertigo plays a big role in how long your symptoms will last.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV is one of the most common causes of vertigo. The average episode reoccurs but usually lasts for one minute or less.

Meniere’s disease

Inner ear problems

Stroke or head injury

Vertigo may be a permanent or semi-permanent state for some individuals. People who’ve had a stroke, head injury, or neck injury may experience long-term or chronic vertigo.

Other factors

There are other conditions and injuries that may cause episodes of vertigo. The length of your vertigo episode will depend on what that underlying cause is.

When you experience an episode of vertigo, it’s wise to practice these do’s and don’ts so you can stay safe and also reduce your chances of greater side effects or complications.

Get a diagnosis

Check out this list of vertigo-associated disorders for more information.

Sit somewhere safe

Get off the road

If you’re driving when a vertigo episode starts, pull over as soon as you’re able. Wait out the episode before you continue driving so you don’t put yourself and others at risk.

Begin home remedies

When vertigo symptoms start, your doctor may instruct you to perform self-care home remedies or physical therapy maneuvers to ease the symptoms. Do them as soon as you safely can.

Seek treatment

The most common treatments for vertigo include:

Home remedies

The majority of home remedies are designed to prevent or reduce the risk for a vertigo episode, but some can be used when the disorientation begins. These include:

trying acupuncture
avoiding caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol
staying hydrated
taking herbal supplements

Medications

Some medications may help stop severe vertigo episodes. The most commonly prescribed medications for vertigo are:

anti-nausea medicines, such as promethazine (Phenergan)
sedative medicines, such as diazepam (Valium)
antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

These medicines may be administered by mouth, patch, suppository, or IV. Both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription options are available.

Physical therapy maneuvers

Two main physical therapy maneuvers are used to treat symptoms of vertigo. Your doctor will work with you to learn the proper technique so you can perform them correctly. These maneuvers include:

Modified Epley maneuvers. The Epley maneuver is a type of treatment that uses head and body movements to encourage the inner ear to reabsorb any matter that’s floating in the inner ear and causing vertigo. The relief can be immediate, or it may take several days.
Vestibular rehabilitation exercises. Moving your head and body when you’re experiencing a vertigo episode may feel too difficult. Your doctor can teach you rehabilitation exercises that can help your brain adjust to the changes in the inner ear. These balancing techniques will help your eyes and other senses learn to cope with the disorientation.

Time

If those results aren’t enough for a conclusive diagnosis, your doctor may request some imaging tests to look at your brain. An MRI can give your doctor a detailed image of your brain.

You should seek emergency medical help if you experience vertigo with any of the following:

a severe headache
a high fever
weakness in your arms or legs
inability or trouble walking, speaking, hearing, or seeing
passing out
chest pain

What is dizziness, possible causes

Dizziness (vertigo) is an alarming symptom that accompanies a variety of diseases. Depending on the severity of the manifestations, a person may feel discomfort, disorientation in space, and nausea. In rare cases, dizziness is so severe that the patient loses consciousness, cannot stand on his own feet. The symptom is widespread among people of different sex and age, but is especially common among the elderly and women.

Causes of dizziness

There are two groups of reasons why the head is spinning: physiological (due to the natural state of the body) and pathological (caused by disease).

Physiological factors

Among them:

abrupt start of movement, eg jumping from a height;
oversaturation of the lungs with oxygen;
strong fright;
low blood hemoglobin;
malnutrition or long period without food;
menstruation, menopause or pregnancy (the main cause of dizziness in women).

Meteorological sensitivity is a separate group of physiological factors. In the world, a huge number of people complain about poor health due to the weather. Violations cause changes in humidity, temperature, changes in atmospheric pressure before a blizzard or thunderstorm.

Pathological factors

Among them:

1. Diseases of the ear. Any disturbance in the vestibular apparatus can lead to the fact that a person will constantly feel dizzy. For example, labyrinthitis – a septic inflammation of the inner ear – provokes severe dizziness. The patient has a fever, headache, regular vomiting.

2. Pathologies of the cervical spine. Diseases such as osteochondrosis, hernias, whiplash injuries lead to impaired blood supply to the brain. This is one of the reasons why the head is spinning.

3. Various phobias. Fear of heights, open space, crowds may cause dizziness. Sometimes a person feels bad just thinking about his fear.

4. Vascular pathologies. Ischemias, strokes, thrombosis cause cerebral hypoxia. Chronic oxygen starvation causes frequent dizziness.

5. Neuritis. The vestibulocochlear structure is affected, which transmits information from the vestibular apparatus directly to the brain. With neuritis, dizziness may weaken and intensify, accompanied by wandering headaches.

6. Meniere’s disease. In 5-8% of cases, this pathology is the cause of dizziness. Meniere’s disease is characterized by an increase in the volume of endolymph, which accumulates inside the labyrinth. The fluid creates excess pressure in the inner ear, edema develops, and the work of the vestibular nerve is disturbed. The head is spinning in short attacks, sporadically. The main symptom is accompanied by hearing loss, tinnitus.

7. Intoxication. When the head begins to feel dizzy, it may be a symptom of poisoning with chemicals, products, various toxic substances. Mercury, arsenic, and lead are especially dangerous for the brain.

8. Tumors of the brain. Neoplasm in the process of growth compresses the surrounding tissues, disrupts their trophism.

9. Minor strokes. Transient disturbance of cerebral circulation impairs the trophism of cerebral structures. Dizziness with a microstroke is strong, pronounced, accompanied by a sharp headache, paresis, and speech disorders. An episode can last several hours and requires urgent treatment.

10. Head injuries. Dizziness is caused by concussions, bruises. If a hematoma forms in the brain, an increase in the volume of CSF causes compression of the surrounding tissues. The nutrition of the brain is disturbed, the vessels are compressed.

Classification

Depending on the nature of the manifestations, there are several types of dizziness in men and women:

1. True. Pathology caused by abnormalities in the extrapyramidal system or vestibular apparatus. True dizziness occurs with vertebral artery syndrome, cerebellar pathology, inflammatory diseases of the inner ear, due to traumatic brain injuries.

2. Pseudo-vertigo (organic syndrome). The patient feels unwell immediately after sleeping or when trying to get up quickly after sitting for a long time. As such, there is no dizziness, but the person loses balance and falls. The cause of false pathology may be a sharp violation of cerebral blood flow, insufficient trophism of tissues and organs. A similar symptom, when dizzy when standing up, is more often experienced by people with overweight or underweight, patients with neurological diagnoses. Rapid movement does not allow the body to adapt to the changed load. As a rule, pseudovertigo is harmless and does not require treatment. It is important to exclude the state of orthostatic hypotension, when a person’s blood pressure drops sharply when standing up.

3. Peripheral vertigo. The cause of malaise is diseases of organs and systems that are not related to the brain. The head is spinning due to damage to the vestibular apparatus. Trauma, toxic poisoning, viral and bacterial infections can lead to inflammation or destruction of the labyrinth. By itself, peripheral dizziness is not dangerous, but it is necessary to treat the underlying disease. Inflammation of the inner ear can progress to meningitis, spread to the sinuses, to the throat. Even without development, the disease interferes with daily life.

4. Central vertigo. Pathology is formed against the background of damage to the central nervous system. Possible causes: tumor, inflammation, tissue compression in the frontal, occipital or parietal lobes, disorders of the cerebellum, extrapyramidal system. Central vertigo begins abruptly. Especially often, the symptom occurs during a quick turn of the head, an unsuccessful tilt, or other incorrect and abrupt movements. If dizziness is accompanied by weakness, hallucinations, you should consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis of pathologies is the key to successful treatment.

5. Secondary disorder. Dizziness develops as a consequence of the underlying disease. For example, the cause of a secondary disorder may be a violation of the body’s sensitivity to insulin.

6. Sensual form. The appearance of a symptom provokes problems in the functioning of the sensory organs. The patient may have impaired vision, hearing. Disorientation is possible with a combination of light and noise stimuli, for example, when a person begins to feel dizzy when entering the dance floor. Dizziness in a sensual form is always provoked by some external factor. Removing the trigger relieves the symptom.

Symptoms

The condition usually occurs suddenly, for no apparent reason. A person begins to feel dizzy, due to disorientation, he is led to one side or the other. If the patient is sitting at this time, there may be a feeling of inclination in space or movement of surrounding objects. The manifestations are similar to those that occur after a long ride on a carousel. The patient is unsteady on his feet. In order not to fall, he needs support. Symptoms of dizziness usually subside quickly. Sometimes it is enough to sit or lie down and be at rest for a while.

Depending on the causes of dizziness, others may be added to the main symptom:

cold hands or feet;
feeling short of breath;
feeling of fear, anxiety;
excessive sweating in one area (for example, on the palms) or all over the body;
confusion of thoughts, feeling of lightness in the head;
nausea, vomiting;
numbness of face, lips;
tinnitus;
accelerated heartbeat;
increase or decrease in pressure;
flashing “flies” before the eyes, darkening;
involuntary twitching of eyeballs, etc.

Diagnostics

In total, about 80 diseases of various systems and organs can cause dizziness. For an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination by a general practitioner.

The patient is prescribed procedures according to his condition:

1. General analysis of urine and blood.

2. Biochemical analysis of blood.

3. Dopplerography of cerebral vessels.

4. Electroencephalography.

5. Hearing research. Results of acoustic impedancemetry, threshold audiometry may be needed.

6. Posturography. During the study, the doctor evaluates the mechanisms of interaction between the vestibular, visual and musculoskeletal systems that provide balance. Carry out rotational tests, caloric test.

7. Rheoencephalography. The study allows you to evaluate the trophic tissue of the brain.

8. MRI. From the images, the doctor receives information about the state of the blood supply system, the presence and location of the tumor, the location of the focus of inflammation, and other important data.

How to deal with dizziness

When dizzy, you need to calm down. Panic will make things worse. It is recommended to squat down or just on the floor, try to focus on one of the furnishings. Do not close your eyes! Dizziness will increase if the brain stops receiving visual information.

If for some time the symptom worsens, the palms begin to sweat, nausea sets in, there is a feeling of tightness in the chest, it is necessary to call a doctor. Before the arrival of the ambulance, it is better to lie horizontally, not to make sudden movements.

If you witness another person having a dizzy spell, help him sit up. You can unbutton your outerwear and open the window for fresh air. The patient is laid on a sofa or any other horizontal surface, the shoulders and neck are placed on a pillow. In an elevated position, the arteries will not kink and ensure the flow of blood to the brain. A cold towel applied to the forehead will help ease the attack.

Treatment of dizziness

The treatment is complex, selected individually for each patient. To prescribe adequate therapy, the doctor must have a clear answer to the question of why the patient is dizzy.

Medical therapy

If the cause of dizziness in a woman or a man is a circulatory disorder, vasodilators are prescribed. An additional intake of antihistamines or other drugs that improve the rheological properties of the blood is possible.

If the head is spinning due to a neurological disease, the doctor prescribes nootropics. Medicines improve nerve conduction.

Osteochondrosis causing dizziness requires complex treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants are prescribed.

Dizziness in women that occurs during menopause or on certain days of the menstrual cycle, resolves after hormonal therapy. Treatment is carried out under the supervision of a gynecologist.

Compliance with the regime of work and rest

The patient is recommended to normalize sleep, if possible, reduce the time spent in front of the computer. It is important to observe the alternation of physical and mental stress.

Diet

From the diet it is necessary to exclude products that increase or decrease blood pressure, spasm blood vessels, and have an exciting effect on the nervous system. The patient is advised to give up salty, spicy foods, strong tea and coffee.

Gymnastics

Between attacks it is useful to do simple physical exercises. Gymnastics will improve blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms, and stabilize the psychological state. You can perform head and torso rotations. If you do exercises with open and closed eyes, the vestibular apparatus will be additionally strengthened.

Simple complexes for balance, swimming, any other feasible loads are welcome.

Prevention of dizziness

To reduce the frequency of seizures and prevent their occurrence, it is recommended to adhere to the principles of a healthy lifestyle:

giving up bad habits: smoking and drinking alcohol;
exclusion from the diet of salty, spicy, smoked, fatty foods;
limited consumption of sweets and caffeine;
daily morning exercises, physical activity;
regular outdoor walks;
fractional proper nutrition with plenty of vegetables, fruits rich in vitamins;
sleep on orthopedic mattresses and pillows if there are problems with the spine.

If the main cause of dizziness is frequent stress at work, it is better to find another position. Lost health is very difficult to restore.

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Why dizziness and what to do about it

Health

October 23, 2022

There are a lot of reasons: from dehydration to stroke.

What are the signs to call an ambulance?

Dial 103 or 112 immediately if you or someone close to you first experience severe dizziness or dizziness and one of these symptoms:

sudden severe headache;
chest pain;
labored breathing;
numbness or inability to move hands or feet;
numbness and weakness of facial muscles;
fainting;
double vision;
fast and irregular heartbeat;
difficulty walking, stumbling;
slurred or confused speech;
repeated vomiting;
convulsions;
sudden change in hearing.

What is dizziness and how does it manifest itself

Dizziness is a general term for sensations that can range from mild weakness and unsteadiness to feeling like you or things around you are spinning and spinning. It rarely indicates some kind of life-threatening condition, but in some cases it can be a symptom of a stroke or other cardiovascular problems.

Everyone gets dizzy from time to time, but if seizures become more frequent, you need to go to a therapist and start an examination. If there are any other specific symptoms, you can immediately make an appointment with a specialist. For example, in case of hearing loss – to an otorhinolaryngologist, in case of headaches – to a neurologist, in case of pain in the heart – to a cardiologist.

Why dizziness is dangerous

Dizziness can be a symptom of a dangerous disease that will harm your health in the long run if the cause is not found and treated. In addition, such attacks increase the risk of falling or injury. And if it suddenly starts, for example, while driving, it can lead to disaster.

What to do if you feel dizzy

If you feel dizzy, you need to start by looking for the cause. To temporarily alleviate your condition, you can:

lie down with your head slightly above your feet until the dizziness subsides, then slowly rise;
try to move smoothly without sharp inclinations and changes in position;
take enough time to rest;
drink plenty of fluids, especially water;
avoid coffee, cigarettes, alcohol and drugs.

Things not to do if you feel dizzy

Don’t do anything that could make your dizziness worse or put you in danger, such as:

tilt head sharply;
get up abruptly after sitting or lying down;
lie flat on a flat surface;
drive, climb stairs, use heavy equipment.

Galina Kaspranskaya

Otorhinolaryngologist, Otoneurologist at the Rassvet clinic.

First of all, the cause of dizziness must be determined, because the recommendations on what to do and what not to do are not suitable for all cases. It is definitely not necessary to drive and climb stairs, because it is dangerous. But even the seemingly innocuous advice to drink more fluids for certain diseases, such as Meniere’s disease, can aggravate the condition.

Why you feel dizzy

Most often, dizziness occurs due to diseases of the inner ear, the part of the body that is responsible for the sense of balance. Also, the head is spinning due to circulatory problems, neurological diseases, taking certain medications and other reasons. So you need to go to the doctor.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

Microscopic calcium crystals – otoliths – grow in the vestibule of the inner ear. Normally, they should not go deeper (into the semicircular canals), but sometimes come off, for example, due to injury or aging. Then, when you turn or tilt your head, they move, irritate the inner ear and cause short-term bouts of dizziness.