Benign Positional Vertigo Treatments

If you suffer from Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV), simply moving your head can bring on sudden, intense dizziness. The inner ear is made up of several structures that regulate balance. Among these are the otolith organs, which contain tiny crystals, called otoconia. If something happens to dislodge the otoconia, they may migrate into other parts of the ear, sending signals that make the brain think you're moving when you aren't. Therapies are aimed at moving these otoconia into their correct position.

Canalith repositiong

• The use of movement to reorient the otoconia is known as canalith repositioning. Doctors use one of two methods of canalith repositioning. The Epley maneuver is named for Dr. John Epley, a Portland, Oregon ear surgeon. A doctor or therapist positions the patient's head in a sequence of four positions, holding each position for thirty seconds. The sequence may be repeated at intervals until the problem resolves.

  The Semont maneuver, also known as the liberatory maneuver, involves a series of rapid side-to-side movements similar to the Eply maneuver.

  Your doctor may also show you how to do these maneuvers at home. In order for the movements to be effective, you must know which ear is causing your problem, something that isn't always obvious without examination and testing. If any neurological symptoms, such as headache, neck pain or numbness occur, seek medical help immediately.

Other Options

• If Canalith Repositioning doesn't work, surgery to insert a bone plug to block a portion of the inner ear may be an option. According to the Mayo Clinic, this surgery provides relief for 90 percent of BPPV sufferers.

  Your doctor may prescribe medication for BPPV, but there is no drug designed specifically for BPPV. Motion sickness medications may help with the nausea sometimes associated with BPPV, and some people find decongestants helpful.
  Once resolved, BPPV may reoccur. Try to avoid head movements that trigger dizziness, such as looking up to take something off a shelf or leaning back in the shampoo bowl at a beauty salon. Be careful walking or driving. Don't climb ladders or put yourself in other situations where an attack of BPPV could lead to a serious fall.