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BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)

BPPV: A common cause of vertigo... with an easy treatment!

BPPV is a common cause of vertigo in adults. It occurs when small calcium crystals in the inner ear move into areas where they don't belong. This movement stimulates the vestibular system, giving the brain the impression that you or your surroundings are spinning—often when the head is in a specific position (for example, sleeping on the right side versus the left) or when getting out of bed. Although bothersome, BPPV is not dangerous and can be effectively treated.

Our Approach:

BPPV assessment is done in a few steps and can be performed with or without videonystagmography (see the nystagmography section for more information):

  1. The patient is placed on their back with the head in various positions. The audiologist observes the patient's eyes to identify the presence or absence of nystagmus (a rhythmic eye movement in one direction);
  2. In each position, the audiologist asks the patient how they feel (dizziness, nausea, vertigo, etc.);
  3. If BPPV is identified, it can be treated through a series of specific maneuvers depending on where it is located in the vestibular system.

It is possible that treating BPPV may require one or two additional sessions. If it persists, other tests may be necessary to identify the issue and determine the appropriate treatment.

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