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What Is the Meaning of Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation where someone may feel dizzy, faint, lightheaded or unsteady. It can be caused by issues with the inner ear or a neurological problem in the brain. According to the National Institutes of Health, vertigo is one of the most common issues experienced by adults.

  1. Signs of Vertigo

    • The most common sign of vertigo is a feeling of dizziness. There are two types of vertigo: subjective and objective. When someone feels as though the area around her is spinning, she is experiencing subjective vertigo. If objects within the area seem as though they are moving or swaying, then the person is experiencing objective vertigo.

    Other Symptoms of Vertigo

    • In addition to dizziness, other symptoms of vertigo include blurred vision, fatigue, headaches, nausea and vomiting. The symptoms of vertigo are not life-threatening; however, they can be distressing and uncomfortable. When someone is experiencing vertigo, he is at greater risk of running into things and falling; elderly people are particularly vulnerable to these injuries.

    Causes of Vertigo

    • The most common cause of vertigo is related to issues with the inner ear. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common form of vertigo and can be associated with hearing loss, decreased cognitive function and weakening of facial muscles. Cogan's syndrome and Ménière's disease can also cause vertigo and are often accompanied with tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and progressive hearing loss.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying causes. If the vertigo is caused by a bacterial infection in the inner ear, then antibiotics are the usual course of treatment. Vertigo related to Ménière's disease or other conditions is treated in different ways sometimes using medication or physical maneuvers. Vertigo, for the most part, is harmless. It can be annoying and disconcerting, but it is not life-threatening. However, when vertigo becomes more frequent, it can be a sign of another, more serious, issue. A doctor should be consulted when someone is experiencing frequent issues with vertigo; that way, scans and tests can be performed in order to determine the possible cause.

    Life with Vertigo

    • People living with conditions such as Ménière's disease or Cogan's syndrome may have difficulties with everyday routines. Driving is not recommended for anyone who is experiencing any sign of dizziness, and an acute attack of vertigo can render the sufferer bedridden until the episode subsides. Reoccurring vertigo can be difficult to cope with because of the impact on normal routines. People who suffer from chronic vertigo may become depressed or feel isolated because of their condition.

    Complications

    • While vertigo is not life-threatening, there can be complications as a result of the side effects. Vomiting often occurs with acute cases of vertigo, and excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration. Balance and coordination issues can put someone at risk for injuries from falls or running into walls or corners. Chronic vertigo can also have a negative impact on work and home life. People who have frequent bouts of vertigo may have higher instances of absenteeism at their jobs and may struggle to keep up with day to day tasks.

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