BPPV, or Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
BPPV, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, is a common vestibular disorder that causes brief episodes of dizziness and vertigo triggered by specific head movements. It is caused by the displacement of small calcium crystals in the inner ear, which can interfere with the normal sense of balance and orientation.
Symptoms of BPPV may include:
- Dizziness or vertigo, which may be brief and intense, often triggered by certain head movements such as rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending over.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty with balance or unsteadiness
- A sense of disorientation or spinning
To help with BPPV symptoms, a physiotherapist or other healthcare provider may perform a series of head and body movements known as the Epley maneuver or canalith repositioning procedure. This involves moving the head in specific positions to help reposition the displaced calcium crystals back into their correct location in the inner ear.
Additionally, some exercises may be helpful in managing symptoms of BPPV, including:
- Brandt-Daroff exercises: These exercises involve sitting on the edge of a bed and moving from a sitting position to lying on one side, then sitting up, and repeating the process on the other side. This should be done several times a day.
- Gaze stabilization exercises: These exercises help train the eyes to maintain focus during head movements, which can reduce dizziness and vertigo. One example involves fixing your gaze on a stationary object while moving your head side to side or up and down.
- Balance training: Exercises that focus on improving balance can be helpful in managing the symptoms of BPPV. Examples may include standing on one leg or using a balance board.
- Tai Chi: This gentle form of exercise has been shown to be effective in improving balance and reducing the symptoms of BPPV.
- Cardiovascular exercise: Engaging in regular aerobic exercise can help improve overall cardiovascular health and may help reduce the severity and frequency of BPPV episodes.
