Vertigo is a false sensation of spinning. Like the Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name, vertigo is associated with feelings of distortion and disorientation and can be highly disruptive to daily functions.
Vertigo is more common than many people realize. In fact, it is estimated that up to 40 percent of all individuals will experience at least one episode of vertigo in their lifetime.
It is important to understand that vertigo is not a disease in and of itself. Instead, it is the symptom of an underlying problem. Most often, this issue originates in the inner ear. If you are experiencing severe or recurring vertigo, it is vital to visit an ear, nose and throat doctor for a professional diagnosis and vertigo treatment plan.
Sierra Nevada Ear Nose & Throat proudly specializes in vertigo treatment at its Balance Center. Make an appointment at one of our four locations in Northern Nevada today.
What is Vertigo?
People experiencing vertigo feel that they are spinning or that their surroundings are spinning around them, even though they are not moving. Generally, vertigo falls into one of two categories, referred to as peripheral vertigo or central vertigo.
Peripheral vertigo is the most common form of vertigo and results from inner ear issues. The inner ear is part of an intricate network that processes sensory cues related to spatial positioning and balance.
Conditions causing peripheral vertigo include:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), in which calcium crystals become dislodged from their normal location and float in the fluid of inner ear
- Labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, in which the vestibulocochlear nerve becomes inflamed, likely due to viral infection
- Ménière’s disease, a chronic condition in which an abnormal amount of fluid builds up in the inner ear
These and other conditions that cause peripheral vertigo may be accompanied by additional ear issues like pain, a feeling of fullness, hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ear). You may also experience nausea, vomiting or uncontrolled eye movements.
Peripheral vertigo is often episodic in nature, and symptoms can come and go relatively quickly over time. Central vertigo, on the other hand, originates in the brain. It generally lasts longer and is more severe than peripheral vertigo.
Central vertigo may be the result of serious injury, infection or disease and can be accompanied by rapid eye movements, weakness and headaches. If you or a loved one are experiencing vertigo in conjunction with symptoms such as numbness, difficulty moving or slurred speech, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Dizziness vs. Vertigo
Though dizziness and vertigo are often used interchangeably, dizziness is a more general term that may refer to feeling lightheaded, unsteady or “woozy.” Vertigo, on the other hand, refers specifically to a spinning sensation. Individuals who suffer from vertigo feel that they–or their surroundings–are moving or whirling.
Vertigo in and of itself is not a diagnosis; it is a symptom of another condition. It can be a highly disruptive symptom, impacting an individual’s ability to function on a daily basis. As a result, individuals suffering from balance problems may cease normal activities and experience anxiety, depression, or other physical or mental health issues. This can have profound social and economic ramifications.
Anyone experiencing severe, persistent or recurrent bouts of vertigo should seek medical advice and vertigo treatment. At Sierra Nevada ENT, we diagnose the underlying conditions causing vertigo and create a plan to help our patients get rid of their vertigo.
There is no single cause of vertigo. It may be the result of infection or disease, injury, age or medication. That is why it is so important to consult with a professional, such as the experts at Sierra Nevada ENT, to determine the underlying cause and create an effective vertigo treatment plan.
Balance Therapy
Many patients come to Sierra Nevada Ear Nose & Throat asking how to get rid of vertigo. The most effective method to alleviate vertigo associated with diagnosed inner ear issues is balance therapy. Balance therapy is a form of physical therapy that teaches your body and your brain to compensate for disruptions to your sensory system.
Balance therapy methods–including habituation, gaze stabilization and balance training–involve consistent training for movements that build upon one another gradually in a safe and professional setting.
Sierra Nevada ENT’s Center for Vestibular Rehabilitation offers an advanced balance therapy program that allows patients to reduce and even eliminate vertigo. Our experts tailor each vertigo treatment plan to an individual patient’s specific needs, helping them reduce symptoms and return to normal daily function.
Call to make an appointment at one of our offices in Reno, Carson City, Fallon or Gardnerville. We will assess your condition and provide effective treatment.
