DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Neurological Disease

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

LOW SEVERITY

One of the most common causes of vertigo, triggered by specific changes in head position. Caused by tiny calcium crystals (canaliths) becoming dislodged in the inner ear. Brief, intense episodes of spinning sensation lasting less than a minute.

Global Affected

64.0M

Countries

Symptoms

Spinning sensation (vertigo)

Nausea

Vomiting

Brief episodes (<1 min)

Triggered by head position changes

Looking up triggers

Rolling in bed triggers

Normal between episodes

Treatment Options

Epley maneuver (canalith repositioning)

Semont maneuver

Brandt-Daroff exercises

Meclizine (symptomatic)

Benzodiazepines (short-term)

Anti-nausea medications

Surgery (rare)

Physical therapy

Risk Factors

1Age >50

2Head trauma

3Inner ear disease

4Prolonged bed rest

5Osteoporosis

6Vitamin D deficiency

7Migraine

8Diabetes

Diagnostic Methods

1Dix-Hallpike test
2Supine roll test
3Clinical diagnosis
4Videonystagmography
5MRI (to rule out central causes)
6Hearing test

Prognosis

Excellent. Most resolve with repositioning maneuver. Recurrence in 30-50% within 5 years, easily treated again. Not dangerous but falls are a concern in elderly.

Prevention

No proven prevention
Vitamin D supplementation
Treat osteoporosis
Fall prevention (elderly)
Avoid head positions that trigger
Sleep with head elevated

Research Status

Canalith repositioning procedures (Epley maneuver) are highly effective and curative in 80-90%. Can be self-administered. Vestibular suppressants for severe nausea. Surgery rarely needed (posterior semicircular canal occlusion).

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vertigo
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.