At The Physio Hub in Collingwood, ON, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your health and recovery, especially when it comes to conditions like vertigo. Vertigo, particularly Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), can be unsettling and frustrating, affecting your ability to go about daily activities. Thankfully, with the right treatment and guidance, relief is possible. In this blog post, we’ll explore why people get vertigo, the best treatment options, self-management strategies, and how long vertigo typically lasts.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is not just dizziness—it’s the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning, even when you’re stationary. Vertigo can range from mild to severe and can make daily tasks, such as walking or simply moving your head, very challenging.
One of the most common causes of vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). This condition occurs when small calcium crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals, where they disrupt the balance signals being sent to your brain. The result? Sudden, brief episodes of dizziness, usually triggered by specific head movements.
Why Do People Get Vertigo?
Vertigo occurs when there is a problem with the inner ear or parts of the brain responsible for controlling balance. The inner ear contains structures that detect head movements and send signals to the brain to help maintain balance. When this system is disrupted, it can result in vertigo.
Other causes of vertigo include:
- Inner Ear Infections (Labyrinthitis or Vestibular Neuritis): Inflammation of the inner ear can disrupt balance signals, leading to vertigo.
- Ménière’s Disease: A disorder of the inner ear that can cause vertigo, ringing in the ears, and hearing loss.
- Migraines: Some people experience vertigo as part of their migraine symptoms.
- Head Injuries: Trauma to the head can affect balance systems and trigger vertigo.
What Is the Best Treatment for Vertigo?
The best treatment for vertigo depends on its underlying cause. If you are dealing with BPPV, the most effective treatment is the Canalith Repositioning Maneuver, commonly known as the Epley Maneuver. This series of head movements is designed to guide the displaced crystals in the inner ear back to their correct position, restoring balance and reducing vertigo symptoms. At The Physio Hub, our physiotherapists are experienced in performing this maneuver to provide quick relief.
Other treatment options for vertigo may include:
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): This therapy involves exercises that help strengthen the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. VRT can help reduce dizziness and improve stability.
- Medications: In cases where vertigo is caused by inner ear infections or inflammation, medications like antihistamines or vestibular suppressants may be prescribed.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: In conditions such as Ménière’s disease, dietary changes (like reducing salt intake) and stress management can help reduce vertigo episodes.
How Long Should Vertigo Last?
The duration of vertigo depends on its cause. For BPPV, episodes of vertigo typically last only a few seconds to minutes but can recur for several weeks or even months if left untreated. However, with proper treatment, such as the Epley Maneuver, most people experience relief after just one or two sessions.
If your vertigo is caused by an inner ear infection, symptoms may last for several days to weeks but should gradually improve as the infection resolves. Vertigo related to Ménière’s disease or migraines may be more chronic and require ongoing management.
In general, vertigo should not last indefinitely. If you are experiencing persistent or worsening vertigo, it is important to seek professional help to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Let The Physio Hub Help You Manage and Overcome Vertigo
At The Physio Hub, we understand how disruptive vertigo can be to your daily life. Our team of experienced physiotherapists is here to provide you with personalized care, whether you are experiencing BPPV, inner ear issues, or other balance-related conditions. With our hands-on treatment, vestibular rehabilitation exercises, and expert guidance, we’ll help you find relief from vertigo and regain your confidence in movement.
Don’t let vertigo keep you off balance—contact The Physio Hub in Collingwood, ON, today to book your consultation and get back to feeling steady and secure in your daily life!