Six Common Questions About Vertigo

What is vertigo?

There are quite a few misconceptions about vertigo. If you have seen that old black and white movie then you might thing that vertigo has something to do with fear of heights. This is a misunderstanding; it has nothing really to do with heights, but you will want to avoid high places if you are experiencing the condition. Another misconception is that vertigo is dizziness this is closer to the truth but dizziness is too vague a term to explain vertigo. You could say that vertigo is a special type of dizziness and there would be some truth in this.

Vertigo is a combination of symptoms and one of these is the perception of spinning. With objective spinning it is the world around that seems to be spinning while with objective vertigo it is us that seem to be spinning. This spinning is completely inside our own perceptions though, as we are not spinning around and neither is the environment moving around us. This unpleasant feeling of the world moving is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting along with involuntary movements of the eyes.

What causes vertigo?

Vertigo can be caused by a number of conditions such as infection, trauma, disease, or poison. The vestibular system is responsible for our spatial orientation and balance and anything that hinders this system can cause vertigo. One of the most common causes of vertigo is benign postural vertigo. This is caused by small crystals inside the inner ear being dislodged and interfering with the normal workings of the vestibular system. Diseases like Ménièredisease can also cause vertigo.

How is vertigo treated?

This will always depend on the cause of the vertigo, but there are general medications and treatments that can help with the condition and reduce the symptoms of vomiting and the other problems associated with vertigo. For most people vertigo will only be a part of their life for a short while and it will never trouble them again. Most medications that are good for motion sickness can also be used with vertigo with good effect; these should never be taken unless they are prescribed by a doctor.

Will I need surgery to solve my vertigo problems?

Vertigo will most often be treated without any need for surgery. It is only when the symptoms can't be treated in any other way and the symptoms are causing disruption that surgery will be considered. It is most often considered a treatment of last resort.

Will I always have vertigo?

In most instances vertigo will go away completely after a few weeks. In some cases there can be residual effects for years after; sometimes this can be as insignificant as the occasional lightheaded feeling of just feeling faint. If the vertigo is due to Ménièredisease then this can sometimes be a lifelong problem.

Do I need to see a doctor if I experience vertigo symptoms?

Yes, you should always see a doctor to establish what is causing your vertigo. Your body is trying to tell you something important and you need to take yourself to a medical professional who can find out what is going on.

Sources

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/benign_positional_vertigo/article_em.htm

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/vertigo/article_em.htm

http://www.neurologychannel.com/vertigo/index.shtml