Vertigo Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a symptom rather than a disease that causes a false sensation of spinning or movement. Vertigo can make it seem like either you or your surroundings are moving, even though they are stationary. Vertigo is a debilitating condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may last from a few seconds to several days.
Unlike dizziness, which is more of a feeling of lightheadedness, vertigo is the sensation that you or the surroundings are moving or spinning, even when you are still. It may last for a few seconds, minutes, or longer, depending on the cause and treatment.
What Are The Different Types of Vertigo?
Vertigo can be broadly classified into different types based on the origin and symptoms:
Peripheral vertigo originates from problems in the inner ear or vestibular nerve, which is responsible for transmitting balance signals to the brain. The most common cause of peripheral vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), a condition where small calcium crystals become dislodged in the inner ear, causing sudden dizziness.
Central vertigo occurs due to issues in the brainstem or cerebellum (the part of the brain responsible for coordinating balance and movement). This type of vertigo can be caused by neurological conditions, such as a stroke, brain tumor, or multiple sclerosis.
This type of vertigo is related to the neck, usually caused by cervical spine issues or poor posture, leading to dizziness or imbalance.
What Are The Symptoms of Vertigo?
The main symptom of vertigo is the sensation of spinning or movement. Other common symptoms associated with vertigo include:
Loss of balance or unsteadiness
Nausea or vomiting
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Sweating
Difficulty concentrating due to dizziness
A feeling of lightheadedness or faintness
Symptoms of Vertigo in Women
Women may experience vertigo differently from men, often due to hormonal changes or specific conditions like Meniere’s disease. Symptoms such as nausea, tinnitus, and imbalance may be more pronounced, especially during menopause or pregnancy.
What Causes Vertigo?
Vertigo occurs due to an issue with the inner ear, brain, or sensory systems that help maintain balance. However, patients may experience a sensation of spinning due to possible head trauma, medications, and anxiety disorders.
Women are more likely to suffer from vertigo due to hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy or menopause. Other causes of vertigo in women include Meniere's disease and BPPV. Several other factors and conditions can also increase the possibility of vertigo such as:
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
This is one of the most common causes of vertigo. It occurs when calcium crystals in the inner ear are displaced, affecting the balance.
An inflammation of the vestibular nerve, usually caused by a viral infection, can lead to vertigo symptoms.
This chronic inner ear condition causes episodes of vertigo, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and hearing loss.
Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Central vertigo can result from reduced blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness and balance issues.
Vertigo can be triggered by migraines, especially vestibular migraines.
Infections in the ear, such as labyrinthitis, can lead to vertigo as a symptom.
Problems with the neck, such as injury or spinal issues, may also result in vertigo symptoms.
How Is Vertigo Diagnosed?
If you are experiencing vertigo, a proper diagnosis is essential to determine the underlying cause. The doctor may recommend different diagnostic tests to confirm vertigo:
This test helps diagnose benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The patient sits on an exam table, and the doctor quickly tilts their head back while moving them into a lying position. A positive result causes dizziness and nystagmus (eye movements), confirming BPPV.
The head impulse test evaluates the vestibular system. The patient is asked to focus on a target while the examiner rapidly moves their head in different directions. If the patient has a damaged vestibular system, their eyes will not stay focused on the target, indicating vestibular dysfunction.
This test assesses balance and proprioception. The patient stands with their feet together, eyes open, then closed. Loss of balance with eyes closed suggests a problem with proprioception or the vestibular system. A positive result indicates a possible neurological disorder.
This test checks the function of the vestibular system. The ear canal is irrigated with warm or cold water, stimulating the inner ear and triggering nystagmus. Differences in responses between the ears help diagnose vestibular dysfunction or brainstem lesions.
Electronystagmography (ENG)
ENG measures eye movements (nystagmus) to assess the vestibular system and central nervous system. It involves placing electrodes around the eyes while the patient undergoes a series of tests, including caloric testing and head movements, to identify vestibular or central abnormalities.
Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential (VEMP)
VEMP tests assess the function of the saccule and vestibular pathways. The patient listens to loud sounds while electrodes are placed on the neck or around the eyes. Abnormal results suggest issues with the vestibular system, such as vestibular nerve damage.
This test evaluates how the eyes respond to head movements. The patient shakes their head rapidly for 20 seconds, then focuses on a fixed point. If abnormal nystagmus occurs, it suggests dysfunction in the vestibular system or the brainstem.
Dynamic Visual Acuity Test
This test examines the ability to focus on an object while moving the head. The patient is asked to read letters on an eye chart while the head is moved quickly. Difficulty reading while moving indicates vestibular dysfunction, as the system can't maintain stable vision.
These imaging tests are used to rule out central causes of vertigo, such as tumors, strokes, or multiple sclerosis. They can provide detailed images of the brain, inner ear structures, and related systems, helping to identify neurological or structural abnormalities that could cause vertigo.
Tuning Fork Test (Rinne and Weber)
A tuning fork is used to differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Placing the vibrating fork on the skull or near the ear, the examiner checks for differences in sound perception, which can suggest inner ear or auditory nerve issues contributing to vertigo.
What Are The Different Options For Vertigo Treatment?
Treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause. Below are some of the most effective treatments:
Repositioning Maneuvers (BPPV Treatment)
For Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), repositioning maneuvers like the Epley maneuver or the Semont maneuver are commonly used. These maneuvers involve specific head and body movements that help relocate the displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear, providing relief from vertigo.
Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms of vertigo, especially in cases where inflammation or infection is the cause. Some common medications include:
Antihistamines to reduce nausea and dizziness
Benzodiazepines to alleviate anxiety or severe vertigo
Corticosteroids for inflammation-related vertigo
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (Vertigo Exercises)
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) involves specific vertigo exercises designed to help your brain adjust to changes in balance. These exercises can be beneficial for patients suffering from chronic vertigo or balance disorders. Some common exercises include:
In rare cases where vertigo is caused by severe conditions like tumors, surgery may be necessary. Surgical procedures may be used to remove tumors, repair damaged parts of the inner ear, or correct other structural issues. Surgical options may include:
Mastoidectomy or middle ear surgery may be needed for patients who experience vertigo as a result of ear infection.
Endolymphatic Sac Surgery for Meniere’s Disease
Labyrinthectomy or Vestibular Nerve Section for persistent vertigo caused by inner ear problems
What Are the Complications of Untreated Vertigo?
Although vertigo itself is not usually life-threatening, it can lead to complications if left untreated. Some potential complications of vertigo include:
Vertigo can cause unsteadiness, increasing the risk of falls, particularly in older adults.
If vertigo is not treated, it can become a long-term issue, leading to chronic dizziness and affecting daily activities.
Persistent vertigo may result in anxiety, depression, or a reduced quality of life.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Vertigo Treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals in Gurgaon, India, is one of the leading healthcare facilities offering comprehensive vertigo treatment. Our medical expert team comprises experienced ENT specialists, neurologists, and physiotherapists who specialize in diagnosing and treating vertigo. We offer advanced diagnostic tools and state-of-the-art technology, including advanced imaging and vestibular tests for precise and accurate diagnosis.
Artemis Hospitals offers personalized treatment plans for each patient that focuses on ensuring the best possible outcomes. To book an appointment with a medical expert at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Dilpreet Bajwa
Sr. Consultant - ENT
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can vertigo be cured permanently?
In many cases, vertigo can be managed or cured through treatment such as repositioning maneuvers, vestibular rehabilitation therapy, or medication.
Is vertigo a serious condition?
While vertigo is rarely life-threatening, it can lead to complications such as falls and anxiety if left untreated.
What is BPPV vertigo treatment?
BPPV is treated through repositioning maneuvers that move the dislodged calcium crystals back to their proper place in the inner ear.
Can vertigo be caused by stress?
Stress does not trigger vertigo. However, patients with vestibular issues can experience increased stress and anxiety which can add on to the vertigo.
How can vertigo be prevented?
To prevent vertigo, avoid sudden head movements, stay hydrated, and manage underlying conditions such as migraines or ear infections.
