Vertigo is a form of dizziness in which you or others you see perceive as spinning. This condition can often be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and loss of balance. This dizziness is not a disease but rather a symptom that can occur in many other conditions. The resulting vertigo negatively impacts a person's quality of life. This condition can also be characterized as loss of balance and a feeling of lightheadedness. Because vertigo is not considered a disease in itself, the possibility of underlying serious illnesses should be considered. Vertigo should not be confused with a classic headache or depression.

What are the Causes and Types of Vertigo?

Many possible causes of vertigo can be identified. Vertigo is generally  caused by diseases of the central nervous system and inner ear. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the cause of vertigo. Dizziness originating from the inner ear does not result in loss of consciousness. If individuals experience dizziness or loss of balance, loss of consciousness, or blurred vision, or if these are noticed by those around them, there may be a neurological or metabolic condition (such as low blood sugar).

The most common type of vertigo in individuals is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is characterized by severe dizziness lasting from 15 seconds to a few minutes, usually following a head movement. It can be triggered by shaking the head back and forth or turning in bed. This condition typically occurs in the elderly. Respiratory diseases and reduced blood flow to the head can also contribute to this condition. While the symptoms can be distressing, BPPV is a benign condition. This type of vertigo generally does not require treatment.

Vertigo can occur as a result of labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, inflammation of the inner ear caused by infection. The causative agents are usually viruses. The most common symptoms are influenza, measles, rubella, herpes, mumps, polio, hepatitis, and EBV. Hearing loss may also accompany dizziness. 

Another condition that causes vertigo is Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease is a condition caused by fluid accumulation in the inner ear, causing attacks of vertigo. In addition to vertigo symptoms, this condition can also cause tinnitus and hearing loss. Meniere's disease progresses through periods of remission and attacks. While the exact cause of the disease is unknown, head trauma, viruses, heredity, and allergies are considered possible causes. 

Vertigo Symptoms

In vertigo, a person experiences a sensation that they or their surroundings are moving or spinning. The symptoms that can occur in a person with vertigo are as follows:

• Feeling of nausea and vomiting in the person
• Drop in blood pressure
• visual impairment
• Blackout
• Loss of strength
• Difficulty walking and changes in consciousness
• Hearing loss and tinnitus
• Impairment in decision-making authority

Vertigo Diagnosis and Treatment Methods

Several tests are required to diagnose vertigo. First, a detailed medical history is taken. A physical examination is then performed to determine the type and pattern of vertigo. Following the physical examination, the patient's eye movements are examined using a device called electronystagmography, which allows for a clearer picture of inner ear conditions.

In addition to these procedures, imaging methods such as blood tests, ultrasound or MRI may be used when deemed necessary.

Vertigo treatment is determined by the individual's underlying medical condition. If the individual has a middle ear infection, antibiotics are preferred. If the ear infection persists, surgery may be necessary.

The priority in the treatment of vertigo is to reduce discomfort and restore balance functions to their safest levels. The cause of the condition is also crucial for the treatment process. In Meniere's disease, patients are prescribed a salt-free diet and diuretics. In benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the condition resolves spontaneously within a few weeks or months. Doctors may perform some positional maneuvers on these patients. Inner ear surgery may be considered for patients who do not improve, though rarely, for those who do. Patients with BPPV should avoid sudden head movements, get plenty of rest, and drink plenty of fluids. They should avoid working at heights and using dangerous equipment. Physical therapy is also used in the treatment of vertigo. During vertigo treatment, it is important to avoid caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol.