The symptoms of vertigo can vary depending of the causative factors. Dizziness or vertigo that is experienced as a sensation of spinning is called subjective vertigo. Objective vertigo is when a person feels that the surrounding environment (room or objects) are moving or spinning around them. A sensation of being pulled towards the floor or towards one side of the room is also occasionally described. The vertigo is often aggravated by changing positions, movement of the head and rolling over while lying down.

A vertigo that has a sudden onset in nature usually indicated what is called a peripheral vestibular disorder or problem from the inner ear. This means it is caused by a factor outside of the brain or central nervous system. Common peripheral vestibular disorders are benign positional vertigo, vestibular neuritis and Meniere disease.

The symptoms of benign positional vertigo usually only last a few seconds to 30 seconds and come and go in nature. It can also include lightheadedness, nausea and imbalance which are usually triggered by a change of head position like getting up from lying down or turning over in bed.

Symptoms of conditions like Meniere’s disease or verstibular neuritis can include the sensation of vertigo, hearing issues, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and pressure of fullness in the ears. These symptoms especially the vertigo last much longer that benign positional vertigo, often for hours to days.

A peripheral vestibular disorder can also cause the following symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Fatigue and reduced stamina
  • Blurry vision
  • Increased heart beat
  • Balance problems
  • Increased sensitivity for motion sickness
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Muscle ache (especially in the neck and back)
  • Vomiting and Nausea
  • Problems with memory and thinking
  • Sensitivity to noise and bright lights
  • Increased sweating

A central vestibular disorder that is causing vertigo usually develops gradually, but not always. Central vestibular disorders such as stroke or migraine can also result in the following symptoms:

  • Seeing double
  • Poor coordination
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Decreased consciousness
  • Inability to speak or swallow due to muscle impairment
  • Headache (can be severe)
  • Weakness

Whatever the cause of your vertigo it is best to get it treated promptly as vertigo is the leading cause of falls in the over 65 age group.

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