Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Ear/Nose/Throat

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

BPPV

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of brief, intense dizziness triggered by head movements like rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending down. It happens when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and interfere with normal balance signals, causing a spinning sensation. Symptoms are sudden and short-lived but can be very uncomfortable and increase the risk of falls. BPPV is diagnosed using the Dix-Hallpike test, which looks for vertigo and characteristic eye movements (nystagmus) when the head is positioned in specific ways. Treatment typically involves simple repositioning maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver, to move the crystals back where they belong.

AI Summary of Treatment Experiences

Not medical advice.

# Treatment Summary for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo The Epley maneuver is rated as the most effective first-line treatment, with most patients experiencing significant improvement after one or two sessions. The Lempert maneuver and Semont maneuver are also effective repositioning techniques for different canal variants (horizontal and posterior respectively). Meclizine is considered a useful short-term symptomatic aid for controlling dizziness and nausea but should complement rather than replace repositioning maneuvers. Diazepam is reserved for refractory cases due to sedation and dependence risks, and is generally not recommended as a primary treatment approach.