What is the most common cause of dizziness?
The most common cause of dizziness is benign paroxysmal position vertigo (BPPV) which affects, on average, 64 per 100,000 individuals within the United States. Also known as the “crystal problem”, BPPV is a mechanical disorder in which the small crystals in the inner ear fall into the wrong canal.
What does the ear have to do with balance and dizziness? What are the “crystals”?
The ears are balance centers responsible for registering movement by way of angular acceleration and gravity. Essentially, the ears provide us with information regarding where we are in space. The crystals are made up of calcium carbonate, and they are housed within the inner ear structures. These crystals shift during movement, and this shift triggers sensors that tell the brain how we’ve moved.
How would the crystals make me dizzy?
Unfortunately, those crystals can get knocked out of place. When the crystals are free floating in one of the canals, the ears are sensing motion while you are staying still. This motion may result in vertigo, or a spinning sensation, particularly with positional changes such as bending over, looking up, turning from left to right or turning from right to left in bed. Other triggers may include washing one’s hair in the shower, brushing one’s hair, climbing a ladder, grabbing something off a high shelf, etc. The sensation lasts for a few seconds to about a minute in most cases.
Is there a treatment?
Of course! The outlook for the crystal problem is excellent. The issue is typically treated by the Epley maneuver and will clear within 1-3 maneuvers for most individuals. It is important to be evaluated and treated by a professional. If done incorrectly, one can exacerbate the issue by crystal migration to another canal that is more difficult to treat.
How does the Epley Maneuver work?
If you’ve ever used one of those hand tilt mazes with the ball inside, the maze is manipulated to get the ball through the maze. The Epley maneuver works in the same manner. The patient’s head is moved just right to encourage the crystals to move through the canal and reposition them back to where they should be.
If you or a loved one are experiencing dizziness or vertigo, our team is ready and happy to help!