Vertigo is a feeling of dizziness or spinning, and it can be caused by a wide variety of factors. Being aware of the most common forms of vertigo can help you identify and manage your symptoms effectively.

Insurance coverage for vertigo can vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have, so it is important to understand your coverage options. In this article, we will explore the most common forms of vertigo and how insurance covers them.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common type of vertigo. It is caused by small calcium crystals that have become dislodged from the inner ear and are floating in the fluid-filled canals of the ear.

When the head moves, the crystals move and stimulate the inner ear, causing vertigo. BPPV can be treated with a simple series of head movements called the Epley maneuver. Many insurance plans cover the cost of BPPV treatment.

Vestibular Neuritis/Labyrinthitis

Vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis are conditions that both affect the inner ear. Vestibular neuritis is caused by inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain.

Labyrinthitis is caused by inflammation of the labyrinth, which is the portion of the inner ear that controls balance. Both conditions can cause severe vertigo and may require treatment with medication and/or physical therapy. Some insurance plans cover these treatments, but coverage may vary.

Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s disease is a condition that affects the inner ear and causes severe vertigo. It is characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and hearing loss.

The cause of Meniere’s disease is unknown, but it may be related to a buildup of fluid in the inner ear. Treatment for Meniere’s disease may include medication, dietary changes, and surgery. Insurance coverage for Meniere’s disease may vary depending on the specific treatments required.

Migraine-Associated Vertigo

Migraine-associated vertigo (MAV) is a type of vertigo that is associated with migraine headaches. MAV can cause dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms. Treatment for MAV may include medication, lifestyle changes, and/or counseling.

Some insurance plans cover treatment for migraine headaches, which may include coverage for MAV treatment. However, coverage for specific treatments may vary.

Central Vertigo

Central vertigo is caused by a problem in the brain, usually in the area that controls balance and coordination.

Central vertigo is less common than other forms of vertigo, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including stroke, head injury, and brain tumor. Treatment for central vertigo may depend on the underlying cause and may include medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.

Insurance coverage for treatment of central vertigo will depend on the specific treatment required and the type of insurance plan you have.

Some people experience vertigo as a result of anxiety or panic attacks. Anxiety-related vertigo can cause feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, and disorientation.

Treatment for anxiety-related vertigo may include therapy, medication, and/or lifestyle changes. Some insurance plans cover therapy and medication for anxiety, which may include coverage for anxiety-related vertigo treatment.

Hyperventilation-related vertigo is caused by over-breathing, which can lead to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This can cause feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, and disorientation.

Treatment for hyperventilation-related vertigo may include breathing exercises and/or therapy to address the underlying anxiety or panic disorder that may be contributing to the hyperventilation. Insurance coverage for this type of treatment may vary depending on the specific therapy or treatment required.

Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that grows on the nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain. As the tumor grows, it can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears. Treatment for acoustic neuroma may include surgery or radiation therapy.

Insurance coverage for acoustic neuroma treatment will depend on the specific treatment required and the type of insurance plan you have.

Vestibular Migraine

Vestibular migraine is a type of migraine headache that also causes vertigo. Vestibular migraine can cause dizziness, balance problems, and other symptoms. Treatment for vestibular migraine may include medication, lifestyle changes, and/or therapy.

Insurance coverage for vestibular migraine treatment may vary depending on the specific treatments required.

Cerebellar Ataxia

Cerebellar ataxia is a neurological disorder that affects the cerebellum, which is the portion of the brain that controls balance and coordination.

Cerebellar ataxia can cause severe vertigo, along with other symptoms such as difficulty walking, slurred speech, and tremors. Treatment for cerebellar ataxia may include medication, physical therapy, and/or surgery. Insurance coverage for cerebellar ataxia treatment will depend on the specific treatments required and the type of insurance plan you have.

Conclusion

Vertigo can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but with the right treatment, it is often manageable. Understanding the most common forms of vertigo and how insurance covers them can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.

Always consult with your doctor if you are experiencing vertigo symptoms. They can help you identify the underlying cause of your vertigo and develop an effective treatment plan.