Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo is a disorder of the vestibular system, that is, the system associated with parts of the inner ear and brain that help control balance and eye movements. It is the most common vestibular disorder, leading to recurrent episodes of vertigo (a feeling of spinning of the head). The spinning sensation usually lasts for a few minutes and stops on its own, though there may be repeated episodes later.
BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) is not associated with any serious illness, hence being called 'benign' and it is recurrent and comes and goes, and hence it is called 'paroxysmal'. Patients cannot predict when a BPPV episode will occur, leading to much frustration. However, it is not a serious disorder, with the only risk being that of the patient falling due to vertigo. Although benign paroxysmal positional vertigo can affect individuals of any age, it is more common in older people over the age of 60.
This disorder occurs due to the dislodgement of small, micro-sized calcium crystals called otoconia from their usual location, into one of the ear's semi-circular canals. When the position of the head is changed relative to gravity (such as when looking up or down, rolling over in bed, or due to any sudden head movement, head injury or tilting of the head), it triggers the otoconia to move, resulting in displacement of fluid in the semi-circular canal, leading to the sensation of spinning or vertigo. While there are no definite reasons or events which will result in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, prolonged reorientation of the head due to certain activities or causes can act as triggers for this disease. Some of these include:
Mild or severe head injury.
Keeping the head in a tilted position for a long time, such as while sitting on the hair dresser’s chair.
High intensity workouts and exercises.
Amusement park ride.
Vestibular migraines.
Besides these, viral infections, complication in an ear surgery, ear infections or medicinal side effects may also trigger the onset of this disorder.
