Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
We Treat Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in Castle Rock, CO
Do you feel dizzy when you roll over in bed? Or does turning your head quickly make the room spin? You might have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV. This common inner ear problem affects many people, but the good news is Castle Rock Ear Associates can treat it effectively in Douglas County, CO. We know how disruptive this condition can be to your daily life, so we’ll deliver care that helps you feel steady and confident again.
What Is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo?
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is a type of dizziness that happens when you move your head in certain ways. While its name sounds complex, each word describes a different element of the condition. Benign means it’s not dangerous or life-threatening; paroxysmal means it comes in sudden episodes; positional means head position changes trigger it; and vertigo refers to the spinning sensation sufferers feel.
BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals in your inner ear move out of place. These crystals, called otoconia, normally help you sense gravity and movement. However, when they drift into the wrong part of your ear, they send mixed signals to your brain about your body’s position.
What Causes Benign Paroxysmal Positioning Vertigo?
Sometimes, BPPV happens without any clear issue, a type called idiopathic BPPV. But several factors can cause the calcium crystals in your ear to become dislodged:
- Age is the most common cause. As we get older, these crystals break down and can move more easily.
- Head injuries from accidents, falls, or sports can shake the crystals loose from their normal position.
- Inner ear infections can damage the structures that hold the crystals in place.
- Prolonged bed rest or staying in one position for long periods can allow crystals to drift.
- Other inner ear disorders, like Meniere’s disease, can make BPPV more likely.
Recognizing BPPV’s Symptoms
The main symptom of BPPV is vertigo that starts when you move your head. Common triggers include:
- Rolling over in bed
- Looking up at high shelves
- Bending down to pick something up
- Turning your head quickly
The spinning sensation usually lasts less than a minute. You might also feel:
- Nausea
- Unsteadiness
- Lightheadedness
- Balance problems
How Is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Diagnosed?
Castle Rock Ear Associates uses specific tests to diagnose BPPV. The most common test is called the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. During this test, we’ll help you move from sitting to lying down with your head turned and tilted. If you have BPPV, this movement will trigger vertigo and cause your eyes to move in a specific pattern called nystagmus. Our team will watch these eye movements to confirm the diagnosis.
We might also perform other positioning tests to determine which ear canal is affected. This helps us choose the best treatment approach.
Our BPPV Treatment Options
Typically, BPPV responds well to treatment. Many patients see significant improvements after one or two treatment sessions, though results vary. The following benign paroxysmal positional vertigo treatments are safe and can be performed in our office:
- Canalith Repositioning Procedures – These are the most common treatments. They involve moving your head through a series of positions to guide the displaced crystals back to their proper locations. The Epley maneuver is one such procedure that often works after just one session.
- Brandt-Daroff Exercises – You can do these movements at home to help move the crystals. We’ll teach you the proper technique and schedule.
- Semont Maneuvers – This technique that involves rapidly switching side-lying positions can be effective for certain types of BPPV.
Self-Care and Prevention of BPPV
While you can’t prevent all cases of BPPV, some strategies may help:
- Sleep with your head elevated on two pillows to reduce crystal movement during the night.
- Move slowly when getting out of bed or changing positions.
- Avoid looking up extended periods when possible.
- Stay active to maintain good balance and inner ear health.
FAQ About Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Our team hears many questions about BPPV, so we’ve answered some of the most common ones below.
Yes. About half of the people who have BPPV will experience it again within five years. However, knowing the symptoms and having a treatment plan can help you manage future episodes. Sometimes, BPPV resolves itself without treatment, but this can take weeks or months. Treatment is much faster and more reliable than waiting for it to improve naturally. No. BPPV is not permanent. With proper treatment, symptoms usually improve quickly. Even when BPPV returns, it can be treated successfully again.
Contact Us for BPPV Care Today
Don’t let benign paroxysmal positional vertigo control your life. The experienced Castle Rock Ear Associates team can diagnose your condition and provide effective treatment in Castle Rock, CO. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.