Vertigo is a false sensation of motion or spinning which leads to dizziness and discomfort. It is not just light-headedness. With vertigo, people feel as though they are actually spinning or moving, or that the environment itself is spinning.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

There are two types of vertigo (peripheral and central). Peripheral vertigo occurs when there is a problem in the vestibular labyrinth (semicircular canals), the portion of the inner ear that controls balance. Central vertigo occurs if there is a an abnormality in the central nervous system particularly in the brainstem or the cerebellum ( back part of the brain). Disorders associated with peripheral vertigo include:

Signs and tests

Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements) and hearing loss may be present in both central and peripheral vertigo. Other signs such as incoordination, eye movement abnormalities, weakness, or sensory loss suggest a central cause. Test to determine the cause of vertigo may include:

Treatment

Medications like antihistamines, anticholinergics, and benzodiazepines may be prescribed to reduce symptoms of peripheral vertigo . Certain exercises may also be helpful. To treat central vertigo, the underlying cause must be identified and then treated. Also, if possible, you should avoid head positions that cause vertigo. Use caution in situations like driving or operating heavy equipment where even short episodes of vertigo may be dangerous.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome depends on the causative disorder.

Complications

Persistent, unrelieved vertigo can interfere with driving, work, and home lifestyle. It can also cause falls which can, in turn, lead to hip fractures .

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if vertigo is persistent or troublesome.

Prevention

See the specific disorder.