Benign positional vertigo is a disorder involving an abnormal sensation of movement that occurs with certain head positions.

Alternative Names

Vertigo - positional

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Benign positional vertigo occurs when there is an abrupt sensation that you are moving or the room around you is moving. This sensation is triggered by head positions such as lying on one side or tipping the head back. Positional vertigo is triggered by the actual position of the head, while in other disorders involving vertigo, the vertigo is triggered by movement of the head. Vertigo of any type occurs when there is a problem in the vestibular labyrinth (semicircular canals) -- the portion of the inner ear that controls balance.

Signs and tests

Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements) may be present. Examination is otherwise normal. Differentiation from other causes of vertigo may include:

Treatment

Usually, no treatment is required. Occasionally, medications such as antihistamines, anticholinergics, and sedative-hypnotics may be prescribed to reduce symptoms of vertigo . Avoid head positions that cause vertigo. Use caution in occupations where even short episodes of vertigo may be dangerous. Sometimes, gradually increasing the time spent in positions that cause vertigo causes the inner ear to adjust and decreases the positional vertigo.

Expectations (prognosis)

Benign positional vertigo is uncomfortable, but it is not medically dangerous, and usually improves with time.

Complications

Positional vertigo may be difficult to distinguish from other disorders of the inner ear.

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if vertigo develops that has not been evaluated. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if benign positional vertigo has been diagnosed and symptoms cause disruption of lifestyle, symptoms worsen, or new symptoms develop.

Prevention

Avoid head positions that trigger positional vertigo.