What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation of dizziness defined as a balance disorder. Vertigo is often caused by problems related to the inner ear or the brain. During a vertigo attack, a person feels as though they or their surroundings are spinning. This condition can be accompanied by dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of unsteadiness.

What Are the Symptoms of Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation in which a person feels like they or their surroundings are spinning or moving. The following symptoms may accompany it:

• Nausea and Vomiting
• Feeling of Unsteadiness
• Involuntary Eye Movements
• Sweating
• Ringing in the Ears or Hearing Loss
  
  

What Are the Causes of Vertigo?

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) (displacement of inner ear crystals)
• Vestibular Migraine
• Ménière's Disease
• Vestibular Neuritis
• Lesions in the Brainstem
• Brain Tumors
• Side Effects of Certain Medications
  
  

How Is Vertigo Diagnosed?

Vertigo diagnosis is typically made by a neurologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. The diagnostic process involves evaluating the symptoms and the patient's medical history. During a physical examination, eye movements and balance tests may be conducted. Additionally, in some cases, inner ear or brain imaging tests (MRI or CT scans) may be performed. These tests can help determine the underlying cause of vertigo.

How Is Vertigo Treated?

Treatment for vertigo varies depending on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. In some cases, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing attacks. Treatment options may include medications, rehabilitation therapies, and surgical interventions. For example, the Epley maneuver, which aims to reposition inner ear crystals, can be effective in treating benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). In vertigo treatment, the treatment method that best responds to the patient's symptoms is determined.