Vertigo is a distressing condition that creates a false sensation of movement, often described as dizziness, spinning, or imbalance. While it is not a disease itself, vertigo is a symptom of various underlying conditions affecting the inner ear, brain, or nervous system. People experiencing vertigo may struggle with nausea, coordination difficulties, and an increased risk of falls, making it essential to understand the root causes and effective management strategies.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of vertigo and the best ways to manage this condition to restore balance and quality of life.
What Causes Vertigo?
Several conditions can lead to vertigo, each with distinct triggers and symptoms. Below are the most common causes:
1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is the leading cause of vertigo and occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the wrong part of the ear canal. This disrupts the body’s sense of balance, leading to brief episodes of dizziness, particularly when:
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Turning the head suddenly
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Lying down or getting up from bed
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Tilting the head upwards
How to Manage BPPV:
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Epley manoeuvre – A series of guided head movements that reposition the displaced crystals.
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Vestibular physiotherapy – Exercises that train the brain to adapt to balance changes.
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Avoiding sudden head movements to prevent symptom flare-ups.
Seeking professional assistance, such as at Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio (www.corephysio.com.au), can help ensure effective BPPV management through guided exercises and treatments.
2. Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s disease is a chronic disorder caused by excess fluid buildup in the inner ear, affecting balance and hearing. It is characterised by:
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Severe vertigo episodes lasting hours
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Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
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A sensation of fullness in the ear
How to Manage Meniere’s Disease:
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Limiting salt intake to reduce fluid retention in the inner ear.
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Diuretics (water pills) may help decrease fluid buildup.
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Vestibular therapy to improve balance and stability.
3. Vestibular Neuritis and Labyrinthitis
Both vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis occur due to viral infections affecting the inner ear or the vestibular nerve. While vestibular neuritis affects balance, labyrinthitis also impacts hearing. Symptoms may include:
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Intense vertigo that lasts for days
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Nausea and vomiting
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Difficulty focusing the eyes
How to Manage Vestibular Neuritis and Labyrinthitis:
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Rest and hydration – The body needs time to recover from viral infections.
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Medications such as anti-nausea drugs or steroids may help with inflammation.
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Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) – A specialised physiotherapy approach to retrain the brain’s balance system.
If symptoms persist, vertigo treatment in Adelaide is available for those seeking professional therapy and long-term management solutions.
4. Migraines and Vestibular Migraines
Some people experience vertigo as part of a migraine episode, known as vestibular migraines. These migraines can cause:
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Dizziness or imbalance
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Sensitivity to light and noise
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Nausea with or without a headache
How to Manage Vestibular Migraines:
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Identifying and avoiding triggers such as stress, caffeine, and bright lights.
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Lifestyle changes, including better sleep, hydration, and exercise.
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Medication prescribed by a doctor for migraine prevention and symptom relief.
5. Stroke or Other Neurological Conditions
In rare cases, vertigo can be a symptom of serious neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), or brain injuries. A stroke-related vertigo episode is often accompanied by:
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Sudden weakness or numbness in one side of the body
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Difficulty speaking or confusion
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Severe headache and vision problems
How to Manage Neurological-Related Vertigo:
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Seek emergency medical attention if a stroke is suspected.
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Physiotherapy and rehabilitation can assist in regaining balance after a neurological event.
6. Inner Ear Trauma or Injury
Head injuries or damage to the inner ear can lead to vertigo by disrupting the vestibular system. Common causes include:
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Concussions from falls or sports injuries
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Ear infections leading to inflammation
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Previous ear surgeries affecting balance structures
How to Manage Inner Ear-Related Vertigo:
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Gradual return to physical activity to allow healing.
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Vestibular physiotherapy to strengthen balance control.
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Medical consultation to assess any permanent damage.
How to Manage and Treat Vertigo
Since vertigo has different causes, management strategies must be tailored to the underlying condition. Here are some general methods to help manage vertigo:
1. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
VRT is a specialised physiotherapy program designed to train the brain to compensate for inner ear imbalances. It includes:
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Balance exercises to improve stability.
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Head and eye movement coordination techniques.
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Strength training for core stability.
2. Home-Based Exercises for Vertigo
Some simple exercises can help reduce dizziness, such as:
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Brandt-Daroff Exercises – Designed to desensitise the inner ear to movement.
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Gaze Stabilisation Exercises – Improve focus and visual stability.
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Tai Chi and Yoga – Encourage balance and relaxation.
3. Medications for Vertigo Relief
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to ease vertigo symptoms, including:
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Antihistamines (e.g., meclizine) to reduce dizziness.
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Anti-nausea drugs to control vomiting.
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Diuretics for fluid-related vertigo conditions like Meniere’s disease.
4. Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications
Making small but significant lifestyle changes can reduce vertigo episodes:
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Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, as they can worsen dizziness.
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Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration-related vertigo.
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Practice stress management techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
5. Seeking Professional Treatment
If vertigo is persistent or affecting daily life, seeking professional treatment is essential. Vertigo treatment in Adelaide includes:
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Comprehensive balance assessments to diagnose the cause of vertigo.
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Individualised therapy plans to improve stability.
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Ongoing monitoring to track progress and symptom improvement.
When to See a Doctor for Vertigo
While vertigo can often be managed with home remedies and physiotherapy, medical attention is necessary if:
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Vertigo is severe and persistent.
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There is sudden hearing loss, vision disturbances, or weakness.
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Vertigo occurs after a head injury.
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You experience fainting or difficulty speaking.
If you suspect a serious condition such as stroke or severe inner ear damage, seek immediate medical care.
Vertigo can significantly impact daily life, mobility, and mental well-being, but effective management strategies can help individuals regain balance and confidence. Whether caused by BPPV, Meniere’s disease, vestibular migraines, or inner ear infections, understanding the root cause is crucial in finding the right treatment.
By taking a proactive approach to treatment, individuals suffering from vertigo can restore their sense of stability and well-being, making everyday activities easier and more enjoyable.
