Do you ever feel like the world is spinning around you, even though you’re staying still? If so, then you may be experiencing vertigo. Vertigo is a sensation of dizziness that causes a person to feel disoriented and dizzy.

There are many different causes of vertigo, from inner ear problems to anxiety disorders.

If you’re experiencing vertigo, don’t panic. Oftentimes, it can be treated with medication or simple lifestyle changes. Here are 15 important facts that can help you better understand the different causes of vertigo.

Causes of Vertigo

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV is one of the most common causes of vertigo. It happens when small crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move around. Symptoms include brief episodes of vertigo that are triggered by certain head movements.

2. Meniere’s Disease

This is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause vertigo, as well as ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss. Meniere’s disease is thought to be caused by an imbalance of fluid in the inner ear.

3. Vestibular Migraine

Vestibular migraines are a type of migraine headache that can cause vertigo, as well as other symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.

4. Perilymphatic Fistula (PLF)

PLF is a condition where there is a tear or opening in the tissue that separates the middle ear from the inner ear. This can cause vertigo, as well as other symptoms like hearing loss, dizziness, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.

5. Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an infection or inflammation of the inner ear that can cause vertigo, as well as other symptoms like hearing loss and ringing in the ears.

6. Acoustic Neuroma

This is a type of tumor that can develop on the nerve that controls hearing and balance. While many acoustic neuromas are non-cancerous, they can still cause vertigo and other symptoms.

7. Multiple Sclerosis

MS is a chronic, progressive disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause vertigo, as well as other symptoms like numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.

8. Ototoxicity

Some medications can cause damage to the inner ear, leading to vertigo and other symptoms. This is known as ototoxicity. Common medications that can cause ototoxicity include antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs.

9. Head Trauma

A blow to the head can cause damage to the inner ear, leading to vertigo and other symptoms. This is especially common in cases of concussions or other traumatic brain injuries.

10. Anxiety Disorders

While anxiety disorders don’t directly cause vertigo, they can make the symptoms of vertigo feel worse. Anxiety can also trigger other physical symptoms like dizziness and nausea.

11. Motion Sickness

Some people are more prone to motion sickness than others. This can cause vertigo and other symptoms when riding in a car, boat, or airplane.

12. Dehydration

When the body is dehydrated, it can lead to a drop in blood pressure and other symptoms like dizziness and fainting.

13. Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar levels can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and other symptoms that may feel like vertigo.

14. High Blood Pressure

In some cases, high blood pressure can cause vertigo and other symptoms like headaches and nosebleeds.

15. Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can cause vertigo, as well as other symptoms like facial pain and pressure.

Treatment for Vertigo

If you’re experiencing vertigo, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of treatment. Treatment options may include medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes.

Preventing Vertigo

While not all cases of vertigo can be prevented, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk.

Staying hydrated, avoiding known triggers like motion sickness, and managing stress and anxiety can all help reduce your risk of experiencing vertigo.

Conclusion

Vertigo can be a frustrating and disruptive condition, but it’s important to remember that it can be treated.

By understanding the different causes of vertigo and working with your doctor to find the best treatment plan, you can get back to living your life without the constant sensation of dizziness and disorientation.