Benign Positional Vertigo

What is Benign Positional Vertigo?

This is a specific inner ear disorder characterised by severe dizziness when tipping the head backwards and to one side – as it occurs when you lie and turn in bed , or look up to a point above your eye level. The dizziness is characteristically only lasts a few seconds to minutes.

What causes Benign Positional Vertigo?

There are various theories as to what causes this condition, but one that is being increasingly accepted is that it is caused by small crystal like particle (otoliths) within the inner ear falling into areas where they stimulate the balance organ.

How is the diagnosis made?

The diagnosis is made by taking a detailed history, and performing a Hallpike manoeuvre. This involves lying the individual back on a couch and looking at their eyes closely to look for any abnormal movements. During the procedure the usual dizziness of positional vertigo is experienced, but this should be shortlived.

What is the treatment?

In about 20-30% of cases the condition resolves spontaneously, and does not recur. In cases where this does not occur your doctor will be able to carry out a particle repositioning manoeuvre. The objective of this is to move the crystals to an area of the inner ear where they do not stimulate the balance organs. One such manoeuvre is called the Epley’s manoeuvre. The procedure usually results in resolution of symptoms in 60-70% of cases. It may need to be repeated after a few weeks if the symptoms have not fully resolved.

Epley's Manoeuvre

If you wish to see a video of the Epley's manouvre please click on the button below:

This video is reproduced with kind permission of Dr T Haines, Northwestern University, USA.

http://www.dizziness-and-balance.com/index.html