#BPPV

[bluenoo42]

Shoutout to people with balance disorders

I'm currently at home and not able to work today because of a flare-up of my balance disorder (bilateral vestibular hypofunction/loss). Apparently, the flare-up is happening because I had COVID-19 a few weeks ago, and it has caused my brain to de-compensate for my lack of vestibular function. This is (according to my doctors) super common for people with this after they have any sort of illness.

Because it's not a painful condition, I think people forget how debilitating balance problems can be. The vertigo, the nausea, the blurred vision whenever you move your head, the falls, the people thinking you're drunk, the difficulty explaining your symptoms because they are super weird, not knowing whether or not you need a mobility aid because your legs are fine but you still can't walk in a straight line.

To anyone who has never experienced this, trust me when I say it's really bad. To everyone with a balance disorder, you're all legends and super cool, and you're not alone with this. To all the disabled people out there, don't forget balance disorders this disability pride month!

[oneshortdamnfuse]

Vertigo is kicking my ass today. Laying down and my brain is like ‘actually we are moving so much right now.’ No the fuck we aren’t!

[draciformes]

This is how it feels to take an ondansetron

[novsart]

[crippleprophet]

to me repositioning maneuvers for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo are a spiritual experience

[crowsblogs]

Me: so what's wrong with me

My ENT: well, you have a balance disorder

Me: what kind

My ENT: -never elaborates-

Rant: Bro, how am I supposed to be proactive in my health care when I'm not even told specifics. The most he's told me is that it isn't bppv! He mentioned menieres before, but said it'd take a lot of appointments to diagnose & didn't further do anything. With all of the symtoms and tests it all DOES lead to menieres, but how am I supposed to get a diagnosis if my ENT doesn't seem to want to do anything?

[mcatmemoranda]

Differential for dizziness is broad:

DDX is broad and includes peripheral etiologies (BPPV, Meniere's, viral neuronitis), Central causes (vertebrobasilar insufficiency, AV malformation, MS, carotid A stenosis), Cardiogenic causes (arrhythmia, valvular abnormalities), Non-cardiac causes (orthostasis, medication s/e, hypothyroidisim, electrolyte AB). Infectious etiologies are also considered. It is unlikely that the pt is suffering from a PE, MI or something more concerning given the duration of her symptoms and fairly benign presentation.

[grkhere]

Natural #vertigo treatment | #Dizziness treatment

[get-well-advice]

Feeling Dizzy? Not anymore.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. I know, it is an extremely difficult condition to say fast. Although, it is an extremely common condition that I have seen patients present with to the clinic time and time again. It is most referred to as BPPV, essentially it is a condition where the small crystals of calcium inside your inner ear get loose. Which leads to intermittent vertigo spells especially when turning your head or when tilting your head up and down. If you experience vertigo only when turning your head or tilting your head up or down, this is a pretty good indication that you might possibly be suffering with BPPV. Thankfully this condition is extremely easy to resolve, all you must do is complete an Epley maneuver. To perform an Epley maneuver you sit on a bed, allow your head to hang slightly over the end of the bed, turn your head to the right and lie back quickly. Wait one minute, if you feel dizzy, then the right ear is your affected ear. If no dizziness occurs, sit up. Wait one minute, turn your head to the left and lie back quickly. Wait one minute, if you feel dizzy then your left ear is your affected ear. Complete this maneuver multiple times and you should feel relief within minutes. I would highly suggest that you look up a YouTube video when attempting this maneuver as it can simplify it much more. So next time you have vertigo spells you might just be able to diagnose yourself and save yourself a visit by having to see a doctor. Hope this helps! 

[uleadme]

"Understanding BPPV: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options"

BPPV stands for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. It refers to a type of vertigo, a sensation of dizziness accompanied by a spinning sensation. It results from minor misalignments of inner ear crystals (Utricle) that send false signals to the brain about the body’s position. Symptoms of BPPV: Dizziness, nausea, unsteadiness, and a feeling of spinning or whirling are typically triggered by a…

[draciformes]

I periodically have to do at-home physical therapy exercises to fix some dizziness/balance issues I have. The exercise involves intentionally and unavoidably making yourself intensely dizzy. My gf and I refer to the exercise informally as 'scrombling'

[novsart]

pls don't repost, ty for reblogs 🧠❤️🦔

[haridiva]

Mengenal Vertigo: Penyebab, Gejala, dan Cara Mengatasinya

Pernah nggak sih kamu tiba-tiba merasa dunia seolah berputar, padahal kamu lagi duduk diam? Kalau iya, bisa jadi itu adalah vertigo. Kondisi ini bisa bikin aktivitas sehari-hari terganggu banget. Yuk, kita bahas lebih dalam tentang vertigo supaya kita lebih paham dan tahu cara mengatasinya! Apa Itu Vertigo? Vertigo adalah sensasi pusing yang membuat kamu merasa diri sendiri atau lingkungan…

[sandeep1111]

How the Vertigo Profile Test Can Help Diagnose Balance Disorders

Balance disorders can significantly disrupt daily life, affecting everything from walking and standing to performing routine tasks. Individuals with balance issues often experience dizziness, vertigo, or instability, leading to a reduced quality of life and an increased risk of falls and injuries.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for managing these symptoms effectively. Without a clear understanding of the underlying cause, treatment can be challenging, and symptoms may persist or worsen.

This is where the Vertigo Profile Test comes in. Designed to assess the inner ear and vestibular system, this diagnostic tool provides valuable insights into the root causes of balance disorders, helping healthcare providers develop targeted treatment plans and improve patient outcomes.

What Is the Vertigo Profile Test?

The Vertigo Profile Test is a specialized diagnostic tool used to evaluate vestibular function, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. This test is designed to pinpoint the root causes of vertigo and other balance-related disorders by assessing the inner ear and its connection to the brain.

Conditions It Helps Diagnose

The Vertigo Profile Test is particularly effective in diagnosing conditions such as:

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV is one of the most common causes of vertigo, characterized by sudden and intense spinning sensations. It typically occurs when specific head movements, such as rolling over in bed or tilting the head back, dislodge small crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear. These crystals then move into one of the semicircular canals, disrupting the normal flow of fluid and causing the sensation of dizziness. Although BPPV is non-life-threatening, it can be debilitating and affect daily activities. Treatment often involves specific head maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver, to reposition the crystals and relieve symptoms.

2. Meniere’s Disease

Meniere's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that causes recurrent episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a sensation of fullness in the affected ear. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal buildup of fluid (endolymph) in the inner ear, which affects balance and hearing. These episodes can last from a few minutes to several hours and can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Over time, Meniere's disease can lead to permanent hearing loss in the affected ear. Management strategies focus on controlling symptoms through dietary changes, medications, and, in severe cases, surgery.

3. Vestibular Neuritis

Vestibular neuritis refers to inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for sending signals from the inner ear to the brain about balance. This inflammation, often caused by a viral infection, results in sudden, severe dizziness or vertigo. Vestibular neuritis typically affects only balance (without hearing loss), and the onset of vertigo is often sudden and intense, lasting for several days. While the condition can be debilitating, most people recover with time. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms such as nausea and dizziness, with vestibular rehabilitation exercises recommended to restore balance over time.

4. Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is similar to vestibular neuritis but also affects hearing. It is an infection or inflammation of the inner ear, particularly the labyrinth, which contains both the cochlea (for hearing) and the vestibular system (for balance). This condition often results from viral infections, such as the flu or a cold, and can cause sudden dizziness, vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Unlike vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis impacts both hearing and balance. Treatment typically involves managing symptoms with medications, such as antivirals or antibiotics (if an infection is bacterial), and vestibular rehabilitation to restore balance function.

5. Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD)

PPPD is a condition characterized by chronic dizziness that lasts for months or even years. It is often triggered or exacerbated by certain visual or physical movements, such as fast head turns, being in busy environments, or traveling. PPPD is not related to an inner ear issue, but instead involves an abnormal response of the brain to sensory signals from the eyes, inner ear, and muscles. The result is a persistent feeling of unsteadiness or dizziness, often worsened by stress, anxiety, or movement. Treatment for PPPD typically includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), vestibular rehabilitation, and medications to manage anxiety and dizziness.

The Connection Between Balance Disorders and Vertigo

The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, is crucial for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. It works by detecting changes in head position and movement, sending signals to the brain to help coordinate posture, vision, and equilibrium. A healthy vestibular system ensures stability when walking, turning, or even standing still.

How Inner Ear Disorders Cause Vertigo and Imbalance

When the vestibular system is disrupted due to conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, or vestibular neuritis, the brain receives conflicting signals. This miscommunication leads to symptoms like dizziness, spinning sensations, and difficulty maintaining balance. These disorders can significantly impact daily activities, increasing the risk of falls and injury.

How the Vertigo Profile Test Works

The Vertigo Profile Test is a structured diagnostic procedure designed to assess vestibular function and identify the causes of balance disorders. It involves several key steps, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's condition.

The process begins with an initial assessment, where the healthcare provider gathers detailed information about the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle. Patients are typically asked about the onset, frequency, and triggers of their vertigo or dizziness, as well as any associated symptoms like nausea, hearing loss, or headaches. This step helps narrow down potential causes and sets the foundation for the test.

Conducting the test: techniques used to measure vestibular function

The healthcare provider proceeds to conduct the test, using specialized techniques to evaluate the vestibular system. These techniques may include observing eye movements, balance tests, and positional maneuvers such as the Dix-Hallpike test. Advanced diagnostic methods, like videonystagmography (VNG) or electronystagmography (ENG), might also be employed to measure involuntary eye movements that indicate inner ear dysfunction. In some cases, rotational chair tests or caloric stimulation may be used to simulate vestibular responses.

Once the data is collected, healthcare providers focus on interpreting the results. They analyze patterns in the patient’s responses, eye movements, and balance performance to pinpoint abnormalities. This analysis helps identify specific conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Meniere's disease. The insights gained guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan.

5 Benefits of the Vertigo Profile Test in Diagnosing Balance Disorders

Non-Invasive and Reliable Method: The Vertigo Profile Test is a completely non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not involve any needles, incisions, or invasive devices. This makes it a safer and more comfortable option for patients who may be anxious about medical tests. Additionally, the test is highly reliable in identifying abnormalities within the vestibular system, which governs balance and spatial orientation. The use of advanced diagnostic tools ensures precise results with minimal risk.

 Differentiates Between Types of Vertigo: One of the key challenges in diagnosing vertigo is distinguishing between its many causes. The Vertigo Profile Test can differentiate between common conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, or even more complex issues such as Meniere’s disease or central nervous system disorders. This precision is critical as treatments vary significantly depending on the underlying cause.

Identifies Hidden Balance Disorders: Many balance disorders are misdiagnosed or remain undetected due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions like migraines or neurological disorders. The Vertigo Profile Test offers detailed insights into the function of the vestibular system, allowing healthcare providers to uncover hidden issues that may be causing chronic dizziness, unsteadiness, or falls. Early detection helps prevent the progression of balance-related problems.

Supports Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient’s balance issues are unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment is rarely effective. The results from the Vertigo Profile Test provide a comprehensive view of the patient’s vestibular health, enabling doctors to create a personalized treatment plan. This could include vestibular rehabilitation therapy, specific exercises, medications, or surgical options tailored to the individual's condition and lifestyle needs.

Enhances Long-Term Management and Symptom Monitoring: The benefits of the Vertigo Profile Test extend beyond diagnosis. By providing a baseline assessment, the test helps doctors track changes in vestibular function over time. This is especially important for chronic or recurrent balance disorders, as it enables ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatments. Patients benefit from reduced symptom recurrence and improved quality of life through proactive and informed management strategies.

Conclusion

Balance disorders can severely impact daily life, making even simple tasks like walking or standing challenging. The associated symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, and instability not only diminish quality of life but also increase the risk of falls and injuries. Given the complexity of these conditions, accurate diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and symptom management.

The Vertigo Profile Test plays a pivotal role in diagnosing balance disorders by assessing the vestibular system, which is essential for maintaining balance. By offering precise insights into the causes of vertigo and other balance issues, the test allows healthcare providers to identify specific conditions like BPPV, Meniere’s disease, and vestibular neuritis, ensuring that patients receive the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Through its non-invasive nature, ability to differentiate between conditions, and capacity to support personalized treatment plans, the Vertigo Profile Test significantly enhances the management of balance disorders. With ongoing monitoring, it not only helps in addressing immediate symptoms but also improves long-term outcomes, allowing patients to regain control over their daily activities and reduce the risk of further complications. Ultimately, this test is an invaluable tool in improving the lives of those affected by balance-related health issues.

[sydneywestphysio]

Why is the room spinning?

Have you ever experienced a sudden bout of dizziness or sensation that the room is spinning? Does this happen when you lay down in bed at night or roll over in your sleep? These are common signs and symptoms of people that suffer from BPPV. Luckily, most cases can be fixed very quickly with the correct treatment provided by vestibular physiotherapists.

What is BPPV?

BPPV stands for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo and is the most common causes of vertigo worldwide. More than 1 in 50 people will experience BPPV at some point in their lifetime and it accounts for nearly one quarter of all dizziness related hospital visits.

BPPV occurs when small crystals (otoconia) in your inner ear become dislodged and enter a semicircular canal. These crystals are responsible for detecting postural changes when we move our head. If these crystals get stuck in the wrong area, they can move in different directions causing incorrect messages to be sent to the brain. This results in the spinning sensation of vertigo.

How do I know if I have BPPV?

BPPV generally occurs without any warning and most people will wake up feeling like the room is spinning. This lasts for 5-20 seconds and will resolve if you keep your head still. Following onset, most people will continue to experience the same symptoms each time then perform a particular postural movement. Most commonly:

Lying down in bed at night

Rolling to the left or right when in bed

Bending forwards

Or looking to the ceiling

Depending on each individual, these symptoms may be accompanied by imbalance, nausea, vomiting or other vestibular symptoms.

How can physiotherapy help?

Vestibular physiotherapists are trained to identify if any of these crystals are dislodged with specific tests and equipment. They will use a camera to identify involuntary eye movement which confirm the areas the crystals have settled. Once this is confirmed, specific repositioning manoeuvres are preformed to relocate the crystals. Generally the treatment is successful in 1-2 sessions and patients make a full recovery.

Contact one of our clinics to discuss your needs

References

Kim, H. J., Park, J., & Kim, J. S. (2021). Update on benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Journal of neurology, 268, 1995-2000.

[medfirst-entdelhi]

Vertigo, a common ENT issue, often results from benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV can be accurately diagnosed with specialized balance-related tests. It's crucial to note that most cases of vertigo do not require expensive neurologic tests or medications. Instead, repositioning maneuvers like Epley's can effectively treat BPPV. Different types of BPPV may require specific maneuvers like Zuma, Barbeque, or Semont. If you experience brief, fleeting positional dizziness, seek clinical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice.