Published on: 6/26/2025
Why do I feel dizzy for just a second with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?
BPPV causes short bursts of dizziness when you move your head because tiny particles in your ear canals get out of place.
Explanation
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a condition that makes you feel dizzy for a short time, especially when you change the position of your head. This happens because small particles in your inner ear, which help control balance, get dislodged and move into parts of the ear where they shouldn't be.
Why Does This Cause Dizziness?
- The inner ear has tiny canals filled with fluid that help you keep your balance.
- When these particles move into the canals, they can disrupt the fluid's movement.
- This sends confusing signals to your brain about your body's position, causing dizziness.
Characteristics of BPPV:
- The dizziness is usually brief, lasting less than a minute.
- It often happens when you tilt your head or change positions, like getting out of bed.
Understanding BPPV can help you manage and seek appropriate treatment, such as maneuvers to reposition the particles in your ear. If you experience frequent dizziness, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
(References)
- Lempert T. (2012). Recurrent spontaneous attacks of dizziness. Continuum (Minneapolis, Minn.), 23042061.
- Fyrmpas G, Barkoulas E, Haidich AB, & Tsalighopoulos M. (2013). Vertigo during the Epley maneuver and success rate in .... European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology : official journal of the European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (EUFOS) : affiliated with the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 23203243.
- Koc EA, Koc B, Eryaman E, & Ozluoglu LN. (2013). Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo following .... The Journal of craniofacial surgery, 23348352.
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