An Overview of Vertigo

An Overview of Vertigo

Among the many things, you might want to know about vertigo is how to cure it, what causes it, and what symptoms it has. The information you learn here will help you make the best decision regarding managing this condition.

Symptoms

Vertigo can last hours and days, depending on the cause. Some of the reasons are brain problems and infections of the inner ear. If you are experiencing Vertigo Denver, seek help from a doctor. You may also need to take medication.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms. They include a change in your vision, ringing in your ears, dizziness, difficulty speaking, and nausea. You may also experience difficulty swallowing.

If you are experiencing vertigo that lasts more than one day, you may have Meniere’s disease. This condition occurs when fluid builds up in the inner ear. You may need to take a thiazide diuretic to decrease the buildup.

Causes

Identifying the causes of vertigo is the first step in treating the condition. A general practitioner or ear, nose, and throat doctor may be able to diagnose the condition and prescribe treatment.

Various causes of vertigo include Meniere’s disease, Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), labyrinthitis, brain infections, head injuries, and other neurological conditions. Some of these causes are treatable, and others may require surgery.

Meniere’s disease is characterized by fluid buildup in the inner ear. This fluid may be treated with diuretics or anti-nausea medications. Occasionally, antihistamines may be used to reduce swelling.

A stroke that affects the cerebellum is referred to as a cerebellar stroke. This condition usually presents with vertigo, nausea, and a negative head-impulse test. Patients often cannot stand on their own without help.

Treatment

Depending on the cause of vertigo, treatment can include medication or surgery. A complete neurologic examination should be performed to determine the underlying cause of vertigo. The healthcare professional will ask questions about recent illnesses, previous medical conditions, and any symptoms of dizziness.

A complete neurological examination includes the Dix-Hallpike test, which measures the electrical activity in the brain. The doctor may also test for hearing loss. The patient may report ringing in the ears or deafness.

In severe cases, the healthcare provider may recommend bed rest to support the patient through an acute episode of vertigo. The doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic to treat a bacterial infection. Antiemetics are also helpful.

If a problem with the vestibular system is suspected, the health care professional may recommend physical therapy. The doctor may prescribe exercises that train the brain to use alternative visual cues to determine balance. These exercises are often practical.

Imaging findings

MRI is the preferred method for examining the brain in people with central vertigo. It is because MRI has a higher sensitivity for acute infarcts than CT. It is also able to detect posterior fossa neoplasms and growth on nerves. It can also rule out chronic ischemic diseases such as multiple sclerosis. It also helps in planning treatment.

Central vertigo is challenging to distinguish from peripheral vertigo. The disease may be benign or caused by brain injury. MRI is a valuable diagnostic tool.

A large number of head MRIs are performed on patients with dizziness. These are typically performed to rule out structural causes of the disease, including tumors, strokes, and disorders of the ear.

Postural vertigo

PPPD, or Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness, is a condition that causes non-spinning dizziness and unsteadiness. It is a relatively common condition that can interfere with your daily activities.

PPPD is often associated with vestibular disorders. These disorders can cause you to feel dizzy and nauseous. These symptoms can last for several seconds or even minutes. You may not be diagnosed long.

In some cases, you may be treated with psychotherapy. This therapy can help you control your emotions. It is also effective in treating anxiety disorders. A doctor will also be able to determine the cause of your symptoms.

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