Vertigo Relief

Benign proxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), also know as benign positional vertigo (BPV) or just positional vertigo for short, is one of the most common types of vertigo. It is ordinarily caused by the build up of small “rocks” of debris (called otoconia) in the inner ear. The main symptom that most people associate with positional vertigo is dizziness or a feeling of spinning or falling, or of the room spinning or tilting. Since these symptoms can also be related to other conditions besides vertigo it is important to consult a doctor or qualified health care profession for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

While otoconia are the most common cause of positional vertigo, they are not the only cause and it is important to understand the cause of your vertigo before attempting a treatment or cure. Different causes may require different treatments.

Some of the treatments that have proven effective in positional vertigo include:

• The Epley Maneuver (AKA Canalith Repositioning Procedure)

Until recently, the Epley maneuver was something that was done by a doctor at a doctor’s office. It is still a good idea to have it shown to you in a doctor’s office and of course have a doctor make the diagnosis of positional vertigo. In the event that your dizziness or vertigo is a symptom of a different problem, doing this exercise at home may only complicate your situation. Even in cases of positional vertigo, trying the Epley maneuver without proper guidance can aggrevate your condition and provide no relief.

• Brandt-Daroff Exercises

Brandt-Daroff Exercises are a series of exercises that are performed at home over a period of 2 weeks. The exercises are done on a bed, in groups of 5 repetitions, 3 times a day. For more information on how to perform Brandt-Daroff exercises, this link show an animated demonstration and explanation.

• Prescription Drugs

Your doctor may prescribe medication to treat the symptoms of vertigo.

• Surgery

If you have a confirmed diagnosis of positional vertigo and other less invasive treatments have not provided relief, there is a surgical option. This is usually considere the last resort treatment.

• Alternative and Homeopathic Treatments

There are a number of alternative vertigo treatments that may be worth considering, especially if the non-invasive procedures described above did not provide relief. Some of these include: accupunture, herbal supplements such as ginko biloba and chiropractic care.

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment or cure for vertigo. The treatment that works for you may not work for someone else. Consult with a knowledgeable health care professional to get an accurate diagnosis and work with them to develop a treatment plan.