treating dizziness is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can alter your balance and spatial orientation. Vertigo is a common sign with a variety of causes that are broadly classified into peripheral and central causes. Understanding the vertigo causes aids in diagnosing and managing vertigo in a way that is effective.
Peripheral Causes
The majority of cases of vertigo are due to causes that are peripheral that involve the inner ear and connected structures.
Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV): BPPV is one of the most frequent vertigo-related causes. It is caused by tiny carbonate crystals of calcium, also known as Otoconia, are displaced from their usual location within the inner ear and migrate to the semicircular canals. The otoconia’s displacement can disrupt the flow of blood within the canals, leading to irregular signals reaching the brain, resulting in the sensation of spinning.
Meniere’s Disease: This disease is marked by frequent episodes of vertigo and hearing loss that fluctuates, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) as well as a feeling of a swollen inner ear. Meniere’s disease is believed to be linked to an abnormal accumulation of fluid within the inner ear, though the exact reason for this buildup of fluid is not fully known.
Vestibular Neuritis condition causes an inflammation of the vestibular nerve which is responsible for sending balance information from the inner ear to the brain. The inflammation is typically caused by a viral infection, which can cause sudden and severe vertigo. It can also be accompanied by nausea or insanity.
Labyrinthitis: It is an inflammation or ailment of the labyrinth, a structure within the inner ear that controls the balance of hearing and balance. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, and can be accompanied by vertigo, hearing loss, and the sensation of tinnitus.
Central Causes
Vertigo’s central causes stem from problems within the brain or central nervous system.
Migrainous Vertigo is also known as vestibular migraine, this kind of vertigo is associated with migraine headaches. It can happen with or without the presence of headaches. It is distinguished by frequent episodes of vertigo that are accompanied by nausea, sensitivities to light, and sound.
Stroke: A stroke or cerebrovascular injury, may cause vertigo if it impacts the brain regions responsible for coordination and balance. Vertigo caused by stroke is usually sudden and can be associated with other symptoms such as severe headache, numbness, difficulty speaking or concentrating to one or the other side.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a chronic disease which affects central nerves, leading to a variety of symptoms, including vertigo. It is caused by degeneration of the myelin sheath that can interfere with communication between nerves that are related to balance.
Neurotumors: The presence of tumors in the brain, particularly those located in areas responsible for balance and coordination, can cause vertigo. Symptoms may vary depending on the size of the tumor and its area of the tumor and can result in persistent dizziness, imbalance, and neurological deficits.
Conclusion
Vertigo is a complex symptom with a myriad of underlying causes. Though peripheral cause are the most frequent, central causes must not be ignored especially when vertigo is coupled with other neurological signs. If you experience vertigo, it is crucial to seek medical attention to determine the underlying causes and seek proper treatment. Understanding the potential causes of vertigo can help in the management of your condition and improve your quality of life.