What is BPPV?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, what does that mean?

Vertigo is the perception of movement in oneself or the surroundings without actual motion. It manifests as a spinning sensation triggered by head movements. Dizziness, stemming from various sources such as neurological, cardiac, or issues within the vestibular or inner ear system, can contribute to this sensation.

Vertigo is a very common diagnosis, 50% of dizziness in older people is due to BPPV. In people under 50 head trauma is the most common cause such as a car accident or whiplash.  After surgery or dental work where one spends longer periods of time when the head is in an extended position can also trigger vertigo. People with migraines, or a history of neuritis or Ménière’s disease often get BPPV

Benign indicates that the condition is not associated with a serious origin and generally results in a positive outcome.

Approximately 1% of people each year experience Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), with a lifetime prevalence of 2.4%.

Episodes are frequently triggered by routine activities, such as rolling over in bed, tilting the head upward while washing hair, or bending forward to put on shoes.

Symptoms typically initiate 5-10 seconds after head movements and last for less than 60 seconds.

People will describe BPPV as:

• Description of “room spinning”

• May also report light-headedness, dizziness, nausea, or the feeling of being “off balance”

• Symptoms generally last less than 60 seconds

Why not use the internet to treat?

There are six canals, with three in each ear. Attempting self-manoeuvers without guidance from a clinician trained in Hallpike-Dix and vestibular therapy can inadvertently shift debris into another canal, leading to vomiting and a more prolonged treatment process.

Migraines often exhibit symptoms similar to positional vertigo, but the eye movements and overall symptoms differ. A clinician proficient in vestibular therapy can distinguish between the two. Trained physical therapists can perform canalith repositioning maneuvers with a success rate of 50-75%, and multiple sessions can achieve success rates exceeding 90%.

If you are experiencing BPPV, schedule an evaluation today.