Vertigo

Definition of Vertigo
Vertigo is a feeling of dizziness that creates a false sensation that someone or their surroundings are spinning or moving. This condition can also occur suddenly in someone. It should be noted that vertigo is not a disease, but a symptom of an underlying health disorder. In severe cases, this condition can also hinder daily activities.

Because this condition can cause disorientation (confusion) and loss of balance. Vertigo attacks can even cause the sufferer to fall. This condition is divided into two types, namely:

Peripheral vertigo. Vertigo occurs when there is a problem with the inner ear.
Central vertigo. Occurs when there is a problem with the brain. Causes can include infection, brain tumor, traumatic brain injury or stroke.

Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo is a symptom of certain health problems that can occur in the ear or brain. Here are some common causes of the condition:

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). It is the most common cause of vertigo and creates a fleeting, intense feeling that you are spinning or moving. These episodes are precipitated by rapid changes in head movements, such as a blow to the head.
Infection. A viral infection of the vestibular nerve, called vestibular or labyrinth neuritis, can cause intense and constant vertigo.
Meniere's disease. When excess fluid builds up in the inner ear, it can trigger sudden episodes of vertigo. Please note that these episodes can last for several hours.
Migraine. Migraine-induced vertigo can last minutes to hours.
Head or neck injury. Vertigo is a common symptom due to a traumatic injury to the head or neck. Especially if the injury caused damage to the vestibular system.
Drug use. Certain medications can cause vertigo, along with other symptoms. For example, such as dizziness, hearing loss, and tinnitus, or ringing in the ears.
Vertigo Risk Factors
There are several risk factors that can increase a person's risk of experiencing vertigo, namely:

Over 50 years old.
Woman.
Have or currently have a head injury.
Frequent use of certain drugs such as antidepressants.
There are family members who have a history of vertigo.
Have an ear infection.
Under heavy stress.
Frequently consume alcohol.

Vertigo Symptoms
One of the most common symptoms of the condition vertigo is dizziness, which usually worsens with head movement. This symptom is usually described by sufferers as a spinning sensation, with the room or objects around them appearing to move. Apart from that, there are several other vertigo symptoms that can also occur, such as:

Increased sweating.
Nauseous.
Throw up.
Headache.
Ears feel buzzing.
Hearing loss occurs.
Involuntary eye movement.
Lose balance.
The initial attack of vertigo usually lasts only a few hours. However, if not treated immediately, vertigo will always recur which can increase the risk of stroke.

Vertigo Diagnostics
Doctors can diagnose this condition by carrying out a clinical examination and gathering information about symptoms and medical history. Next, the doctor will carry out a thorough physical examination. Including the ears and nerves of someone who experiences it.

If needed, certain clinical tests and observations may also be performed to diagnose vertigo. Examples include the head impulse test or the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. In some cases, other supporting tests such as imaging tests, hearing tests, and balance tests may also be performed.

Vertigo Treatment
Actually, some cases of vertigo can heal without treatment. This is because the brain has managed to adapt to changes in the inner ear. However, as previously explained, this condition is not a disease, but a symptom of a health problem.

Therefore, if treatment is needed, this will focus on the underlying cause. Here are some common vertigo treatments:

Drug use. Treating the cause of vertigo can help relieve symptoms. For example, if vertigo is a by-product of an infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics, or steroids to help reduce inflammation.
Vestibular rehabilitation. If vertigo is the result of an inner ear problem, this type of physical therapy can help reduce symptoms. Vestibular rehabilitation can help strengthen the other senses so that they can compensate for episodes of vertigo.
Canalith repositioning procedure (CRP). If a person has BPPV, a canalith repositioning maneuver may be performed. This treatment aims to help move calcium deposits into the inner ear space.
Surgery. When vertigo is caused by a serious underlying problem, such as a brain tumor or neck injury, surgery may be needed.
Vertigo complications
Depending on the cause, left untreated vertigo can result in serious complications and permanent damage. Here are some risks of complications:

Difficulty doing everyday tasks.
Nerve problems that cause pain, numbness or tingling.
Traumatic injury from a fall.
Anxiety.
Brain damage.
Depression.
Decreased overall quality of life.
Disruption of body balance and coordination.
Paralysis.
Permanent hearing loss.
Spread of infection.
Unconscious and in a coma.

Vertigo Prevention
There are several ways you can do to prevent vertigo symptoms from appearing, namely:

Avoid sudden movements so as not to fall.
Sit down immediately if vertigo strikes.
Use several pillows so that the head position while sleeping becomes higher.
Move your head slowly.
Avoid tilting your head, crouching, or bending your body.
For people with Meniere's disease, limit salt consumption in the daily menu.
When to See a Doctor?
Immediately consult a doctor if you experience the main symptoms of vertigo. Early treatment can certainly minimize the risk of complications that lurk.