Vertigo is a sensation of dizziness or spinning, often making you feel like you or your surroundings are moving when they aren’t. This disorienting experience can range from mild episodes to severe, prolonged bouts, significantly impacting daily life.
Understanding Vertigo
Vertigo isn’t just a feeling of dizziness; it’s often a symptom of underlying issues affecting the vestibular system, a crucial part of our inner ear and brain that helps maintain balance. This glossary page is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of vertigo, exploring its causes, symptoms, and treatments, while highlighting the role of Neuro Audiology in managing this condition.
Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo can be triggered by various conditions, some more common than others. Key causes include:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is the most common cause of vertigo, occurring when tiny calcium particles clump up in the inner ear canals.
- Meniere’s Disease: This inner ear disorder is characterised by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
- Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: These conditions involve inflammation of the inner ear or the nerves connecting the inner ear to the brain, usually due to infection.
Other possible causes can include head injuries, migraines, and certain medications that affect the inner ear function.
Symptoms of Vertigo
Common symptoms of vertigo include:
- A sensation of spinning or tilting
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Balance problems
- Sweating
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
These symptoms can be sporadic or constant, and their intensity can vary greatly from person to person.
Diagnosing Vertigo
Accurate diagnosis of vertigo involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Neuro Audiology plays a pivotal role in this process, utilising specialised tests and equipment to evaluate the vestibular system. Some common diagnostic tests include:
- Head Impulse Test (HIT): This assesses the function of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, which helps stabilise vision during head movements.
- Electronystagmography (ENG) and Videonystagmography (VNG): These tests measure eye movements to assess the function of the inner ear and brain.
- Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP): This test evaluates the function of otolith organs in the inner ear, which detect gravity and linear movements.
Treating Vertigo
Treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:
- Canalith Repositioning Manoeuvres: For BPPV, procedures like the Epley manoeuvre can help move calcium particles out of the inner ear canals.
- Medications: To relieve symptoms like nausea and motion sickness, medications such as antihistamines or anticholinergics may be prescribed.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: A form of physical therapy that helps strengthen the vestibular system and improve balance.
Neuro Audiology’s team of experts is dedicated to providing personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs, ensuring optimal management of vertigo symptoms.
Living with Vertigo
Living with vertigo can be challenging, but understanding the condition and working closely with healthcare professionals can make a significant difference. Neuro Audiology offers comprehensive support, from diagnosis to treatment, helping patients regain control of their lives. Education about lifestyle changes, such as staying hydrated, avoiding sudden head movements, and practising balance exercises, can also play a crucial role in managing vertigo effectively.
When to Seek Help
If you experience persistent or severe vertigo, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent complications and improve the quality of life. Neuro Audiology is committed to offering the highest standard of care, using the latest technology and research to help patients navigate their vertigo journey.
Conclusion
Vertigo can be a daunting experience, but with the right information and support, it can be managed effectively. Neuro Audiology is here to help, offering expert diagnosis, treatment, and support to those affected by this condition. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of vertigo, patients can take proactive steps towards a healthier, more balanced life.
At NeuroAudiology, we specialise in assessing and managing auditory processing disorders, providing tailored interventions that empower individuals to overcome their challenges. With the right support, those with APD can improve their auditory skills and enjoy a more fulfilling life.
In a world rich with sounds and conversations, understanding and addressing auditory processing disorders is vital for effective communication and emotional well-being. Don’t hesitate—take the first step toward improved auditory health today!
