Understanding Vertigo – The Cause And Treatment

Vertigo is a condition that often leaves people feeling disoriented and unsteady. It can significantly impact one’s quality of life, causing dizziness, nausea, and a sense of spinning. At TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, we understand how debilitating vertigo can be and aim to provide comprehensive care to help our patients manage and overcome this condition. If you feel like you or a loved one are suffering from the detrimental effects of vertigo and it has started to run your or their life, you must get checked out by a medical professional right away.

What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is more than just a feeling of dizziness. It is a specific type of dizziness that creates a false sensation of movement. People experiencing vertigo often describe it as feeling like the room is spinning around them, even when standing still. This condition can lead to balance issues, making it difficult to carry out daily activities.

1. The Sensation of Spinning: The hallmark of vertigo is the sensation of spinning or movement. This can be a very disorienting experience, causing individuals to feel off-balance. The sensation may last a few seconds or persist for much longer, affecting one’s ability to concentrate or walk straight.
2. Dizziness and Nausea: Vertigo is often accompanied by dizziness and nausea. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause of the vertigo. Some people may also experience headaches, sweating, or ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus.
3. Impact on Daily Life: Living with vertigo can be challenging. Simple tasks like walking, driving, or even sitting up in bed can become daunting. The unpredictability of vertigo episodes can lead to anxiety and a constant fear of losing balance, which further impacts one’s overall well-being.

Causes of Vertigo

Understanding the root cause of vertigo is crucial for effective treatment. Vertigo can be caused by various conditions, often related to issues in the inner ear or the brain. Let’s explore some common causes of vertigo.

BPPV is one of the most common causes of vertigo. It occurs when tiny calcium particles called canaliths clump up in the inner ear canals. The inner ear sends signals to the brain about head and body movements relative to gravity. When these particles are displaced, they interfere with the normal signaling, causing dizziness and a spinning sensation.

Meniere’s disease is an inner ear disorder that affects balance and hearing. It is characterized by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. The exact cause of Meniere’s disease is unknown, but it is thought to be related to abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear.

Vestibular Neuritis

Vestibular neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. This condition is usually caused by a viral infection and leads to severe vertigo, nausea, and balance problems. Unlike BPPV, vestibular neuritis does not typically cause hearing loss.

Migraines

Migrainous vertigo, also known as vestibular migraine, can cause vertigo in people who suffer from migraines. These episodes of vertigo can occur with or without a headache and are often accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound.

Other Causes

Other causes of vertigo include head injuries, ear infections, and certain medications that can affect the inner ear. It’s important to identify the specific cause to tailor the treatment effectively.

Symptoms of Vertigo

Recognizing the symptoms of vertigo is essential for seeking appropriate medical care. Vertigo symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, but there are common signs to look out for.

1. Spinning Sensation: The primary symptom of vertigo is a spinning sensation, where it feels like you or your surroundings are moving. This can be very disorienting and often leads to imbalance.
2. Nausea and Vomiting: Due to the disorienting nature of vertigo, nausea and vomiting are common. These symptoms can be triggered by the spinning sensation and make it challenging to keep food down.
3. Balance Problems: Vertigo can cause significant balance issues. Individuals may feel unsteady on their feet, have difficulty walking straight, or feel as though they are being pulled to one side.
4. Nystagmus: Nystagmus is an involuntary movement of the eyes, often seen in people with vertigo. This condition can affect vision and further contribute to the feeling of dizziness.
5. Hearing Changes: In cases like Meniere’s disease, vertigo may be accompanied by hearing changes, such as hearing loss or tinnitus. These symptoms can fluctuate with the severity of vertigo episodes.

Diagnosis of Vertigo

Proper diagnosis of vertigo involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. At TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, our medical professionals use various methods to diagnose the underlying cause of vertigo.

Medical History

A detailed medical history helps in understanding the patient’s symptoms and potential triggers. Questions about the frequency, duration, and nature of vertigo episodes are crucial in forming a diagnosis.

Physical Examination

A physical examination, including a neurological exam, helps assess balance and coordination. Tests like the Dix-Hallpike maneuver can provoke vertigo symptoms, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like BPPV.

Hearing Tests

Hearing tests may be conducted to identify any hearing loss or abnormalities in the inner ear. These tests are particularly important for diagnosing Meniere’s disease and other ear-related causes of vertigo.

Imaging Studies

In some cases, imaging studies like MRI or CT scans are necessary to rule out more serious conditions, such as brain tumors or stroke, that can cause vertigo. These scans provide detailed images of the brain and inner ear structures.

Treatment Options for Vertigo

The treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause. At TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, we offer various treatment options to help manage and alleviate vertigo symptoms.

Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers

For BPPV, canalith repositioning maneuvers like the Epley maneuver are highly effective. These maneuvers involve a series of head and body movements designed to move the displaced canaliths to a part of the inner ear where they no longer cause symptoms.

Medications

Medications can help relieve symptoms of vertigo, such as dizziness and nausea. Commonly prescribed medications include antihistamines, anticholinergics, and benzodiazepines. In cases of vestibular neuritis, antiviral or corticosteroid medications may be used.

Vestibular Rehabilitation

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at improving balance and reducing vertigo symptoms. VRT involves exercises that help the brain compensate for inner ear problems, improving stability and coordination.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Certain lifestyle changes and home remedies can help manage vertigo. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and reducing salt intake can alleviate symptoms. Performing balance exercises and avoiding sudden head movements can also help.

Surgical Options

In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered. Procedures like labyrinthectomy or vestibular nerve section aim to correct issues in the inner ear causing vertigo.

Living with Vertigo

Living with vertigo requires understanding and managing the condition effectively. At TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, we support our patients in adapting to life with vertigo through education and personalized care plans.

1. Coping Strategies: Developing coping strategies can make living with vertigo more manageable. This includes learning how to recognize and avoid triggers, practicing stress-reduction techniques, and using assistive devices like canes for stability.
2. Support Systems: Having a strong support system is crucial for individuals with vertigo. Family and friends can provide emotional support and assist with daily tasks during severe episodes. Support groups and counseling can also be beneficial.

Get Checked Out at TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track

Regular check-ups with healthcare providers help monitor the condition and adjust treatment plans as needed. At TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, we encourage our patients to stay in touch with their medical team for ongoing support and care. Get checked out at TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track. If you need urgent care help, we have over 19 locations in the Greater Tampa Bay Area. With our On My Way System, you can fill out forms electronically for an expedited check-in, ensuring you receive prompt and efficient care. Don’t let vertigo control your life – reach out to us today, and let us help you get back on track.