How to Tackle Positional Vertigo

BPPV occurs as a result of otoconia, tiny crystals of calcium carbonate that are a normal part of the inner ear's anatomy, detaching from the otolithic membrane in the utricle and collecting in one of the semicircular canals. When the head is still, s the otoconia to clump and settle. When the head moves, the otoconia shifts.

Dr Arun Oommen MBBS, MS (Gen Surg), MCh (Neurosurgery), MRCSED, MBA Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon VPS Lakeshore Hospital NH-47, Bypass, Maradu, Nettoor PO, Kochi 682040, India.

Is there any permanent solution for this disgusting problem?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common disorder of the inner ear's vestibular system, which is a vital part of maintaining balance. Usually benign are generally not progressive. BPPV produces a sensation of spinning called vertigo that is both paroxysmal and positional, meaning it occurs suddenly and with a change in head position. It's typically unilateral, although in some cases it is bilateral.

BPPV occurs as a result of otoconia, tiny crystals of calcium carbonate that are a normal part of the inner ear’s anatomy, detaching from the otolithic membrane in the utricle and collecting in one of the semicircular canals. When the head is still, gravity causes the otoconia to clump and settle. When the head moves, the otoconia shifts. This stimulates the cupula to send false signals to the brain, producing vertigo and triggering nystagmus (involuntary eye movements).

Symptoms 

Mainly vertigo, then dizziness (lightheadedness), imbalance, difficulty concentrating, and nausea. Symptoms are precipitated by changing the head’s position with respect to gravity. With the involvement of the posterior semicircular canal in classic BPPV, common problematic head movements include looking up, or rolling over and getting out of bed.