If vertigo is caused by “inner ear crystals,” the condition is often Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. In BPPV, tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) become displaced into the wrong part of the inner ear, causing brief episodes of dizziness with certain head movements.
What can help?
The most effective treatment is usually a canalith repositioning maneuver, which uses specific head and body movements to guide the crystals back where they belong. The best-known is the Epley maneuver, but the correct maneuver depends on which ear and which semicircular canal is affected.
Because using the wrong maneuver may not help, it’s best to have a healthcare professional confirm the diagnosis first. Many people experience significant improvement after one or a few properly performed repositioning maneuvers.
Other tips
- Move slowly when getting out of bed.
- Sit down immediately if you become dizzy to reduce the risk of falling.
- Stay hydrated and follow your clinician’s advice.
- If symptoms keep returning, a physical therapist trained in vestibular rehabilitation may help.
When to seek urgent medical care
Vertigo is not always caused by ear crystals. Get immediate medical attention if dizziness is accompanied by:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side.
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
- Double vision or sudden vision loss.
- Severe headache unlike any you’ve had before.
- Fainting, chest pain, or difficulty walking that doesn’t improve.
If your dizziness lasts for hours, occurs without head movement, or is associated with hearing loss, it’s important to see a healthcare professional, as another condition may be responsible.
