What is benign positional vertigo?

This can also be a called paroxysmal positional vertigo and is described as a spinning sensation of the head that is triggered by particular head positions, usually it is a fast head movement.

The term “benign” means that it is not a serious condition like something life threatening and it will usually eventually get better.

What causes benign positional vertigo?

In a majority of people the cause is unknown and there may be no precipitating cause, but it can be post viral infection or any type of injury to the head or neck.

Two theories exist to explain benign positional vertigo

1. The balance organs of the inner ear called the labyrinth are filled with a fluid like substance. Tiny particles or floating debris get lose into the fluid and disrupt the normal communication of balance.

2. There is something wrong with the neck, often described as a kink or wry neck. The neck plays a large role in our balance perception through neurological mechanisms.

What are the symptoms of benign positional vertigo?

it will consist of a very short attack of severe dizziness (vertigo), usually lasting anywhere between 10-30 seconds, that happens a few seconds after moving the head. The episode will settle down after this period.

The most common aggravating positions that result in vertigo episodes:

  • bending the head backwards (like your looking at the sky)
  • getting up from a lying position to seated or standing.
  • rolling over in bed
  • lying on a particular side
  • turning the head to one side

Who can get benign positional vertigo?

It can occur at any age, but usually it occurs in the elderly population more frequently. It is the most common cause of dizziness or vertigo in the aged population. Between the sexes, women are two times more likely to suffer from it than men. benign positional vertigo is a surprisingly common issue.

How long do the episodes of benign positional vertigo last?

Each attack will usually last below 30 seconds. Although it can feel longer than that when it happens to you. You may feel unsettled for the next 5 minutes but the actual feeling of spinning or dizziness should settle.

Some people are lucky and only have one attack but for a majority of people the condition will reoccur within 5 years.

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