Vertigo, the unsettling sensation of spinning or dizziness, is a symptom many people experience at some point in their lives. Unlike ordinary dizziness, vertigo creates the illusion of movement, often making individuals feel as if the room is spinning or tilting. This disorienting condition can impact daily activities, leading to nausea, unsteadiness, and fear of falling.
Understanding the causes of vertigo is essential for effective treatment and prevention. At Anatomy Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping patients identify and address the root causes of vertigo through natural, non-invasive approaches.
What Are the Common Causes of Vertigo?
Several conditions can cause vertigo, ranging from inner ear disorders to nervous system dysfunctions. Below are some of the most common culprits:
1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is one of the leading causes of vertigo. It occurs when tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the ear’s semicircular canals, disrupting balance signals.
Key Features:
- Triggered by specific head movements, such as rolling over in bed or tilting the head.
- Episodes last a few seconds to minutes.
2. Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear condition caused by an abnormal buildup of fluid in the ear. This fluid affects balance and hearing.
Key Features:
- Sudden, severe vertigo episodes lasting hours.
- Hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
- A feeling of fullness in the affected ear.
3. Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis
These conditions involve inflammation of the vestibular nerve (vestibular neuritis) or the inner ear (labyrinthitis), often due to viral infections.
Key Features:
- Severe vertigo that can last for days.
- Accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and difficulty walking.
- May cause temporary hearing loss in labyrinthitis.
4. Migraines
Migraine-associated vertigo, also called vestibular migraines, can occur with or without a headache. This type of vertigo stems from changes in brain activity during a migraine episode.
Key Features:
- Dizziness or vertigo during or after migraines.
- Sensitivity to light and sound.
- Can last minutes to hours.
5. Head or Neck Injuries
Trauma to the head or neck, such as whiplash or a concussion, can damage the structures responsible for balance, leading to vertigo.
Key Features:
- Vertigo that develops after an injury.
- Accompanied by neck pain or headaches.
- May include visual disturbances or disorientation.
6. Acoustic Neuroma
An acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that develops on the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain.
Key Features:
- Gradual onset of vertigo and hearing loss.
- Possible ringing in the affected ear.
7. Central Nervous System Disorders
Vertigo can also stem from issues in the central nervous system, such as:
- Stroke: Vertigo combined with weakness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Vertigo as a symptom of nerve damage.
- Brain Injuries or Tumors: Pressure on balance centers in the brain.
8. Other Contributing Factors
Several other conditions and lifestyle factors can cause or worsen vertigo:
- Low Blood Pressure: Sudden drops can lead to lightheadedness and vertigo.
- Dehydration: Lack of fluids affects inner ear function.
- Medications: Certain drugs, especially those that affect the inner ear or nervous system, may trigger vertigo.
- Anxiety: Chronic stress and anxiety can cause or exacerbate dizziness.
Take Control of Your Vertigo
Vertigo doesn’t have to disrupt your life. By understanding its causes and taking proactive steps to manage symptoms, you can regain control and confidence. At Anatomy Chiropractic, we specialize in personalized care that targets the root causes of vertigo.
Schedule a consultation with us, today! Together, we’ll work to restore your balance and improve your quality of life.
