Information on Benign Positional Vertigo

Benign positional vertigo--also called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo--occurs when a person experiences an abrupt spinning sensation. The Mayo Clinic reports that this is one of most common forms of vertigo.

Causes

• Benign positional vertigo occurs when calcium crystals break loose and move around in the semicircular canals. These canals are structures in the inner ear that play a key role in balance.

Symptoms

• The principle symptom of the condition is the spinning sensation, which tends to be brief but intense. Other symptoms can include nausea and disturbances in vision.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of the condition is typically accomplished by turning the patient's head in a way that brings on abnormal eye movements indicative of benign positional vertigo. According to the National Institute of Health, other tests that may be done include MRIs, CT scans and an EEG.

Treatment

• A very successful treatment is called the Epley maneuver and it involves moving the head through a series of positions that encourage the crystals to move out of the semicircular canals. In some cases, a surgical procedure is used to plug the canal.

Long Term

• Benign positional vertigo does not get worse with time and will frequently resolve itself.