Vertigo is a sensation where a person feels as if they or their surroundings are spinning or moving, even though there is no actual movement. This feeling of spinning or swaying can cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty maintaining balance or walking
. Vertigo is distinct from general dizziness or lightheadedness. While dizziness can mean feeling faint or unsteady, vertigo specifically involves a false sense of motion or spinning
. There are two main types of vertigo:
- Peripheral vertigo : The most common type, caused by problems in the inner ear or the vestibular nerve that helps control balance. Conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), where tiny crystals in the inner ear move out of place, are typical causes
- Central vertigo : Less common, caused by issues in the brain such as stroke, infection, or tumors. This type often involves more severe symptoms like difficulty walking
Vertigo can be triggered or worsened by head movements and may come in episodes or persist for longer periods. It can significantly impact daily activities and safety, including driving and walking
. Treatment depends on the cause but may include specific head maneuvers (like the Epley maneuver for BPPV), medications to relieve symptoms, physical therapy for balance, or surgery in rare cases
. In summary, vertigo is a symptom characterized by the false sensation of spinning or movement, primarily caused by inner ear or brain issues affecting balance
