What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a sub-type of dizziness that results from an imbalance in the vestibular system. It is often described as an illusion of movement, such as a rotating or spinning feeling and can often be associated with a sense of imbalance.
Vertigo can occur for many reasons but most commonly it is due to loose crystals in the ear that cause BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo).
Benign – it is not life threatening
Paroxysmal – it comes in sudden, brief spells
Positional – it gets triggered by certain head positions or movements
Vertigo – a false sense of rotational movement
BPPV is fairly common, with an estimated lifetime prevalence of 2.4%. It is thought to be rare in children but can affect adults at any age, especially seniors. The vast majority of cases occur for no apparent reason, with many people describing that they simply went to get out of bed and the room started to spin.
