Published on: 6/26/2025
What causes Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) to develop in the first place?
BPPV is caused by tiny crystals in the inner ear moving to places they shouldn't be, which makes you feel dizzy when you change positions.
What brings you in today?
Explanation
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) happens when tiny crystals in your ear, called otoconia, get loose and move into the wrong part of the inner ear. Normally, these crystals help you keep your balance. But when they move, they can cause dizziness, especially when you move your head in certain ways.
Causes of BPPV
- Loose Crystals: The main cause of BPPV is when these crystals become dislodged.
- Injury or Aging: Sometimes, a head injury or getting older can make these crystals move.
- Unknown Causes: Often, doctors don't know why the crystals move, which is called idiopathic.
How It Feels
- When the crystals move, you might feel like the room is spinning.
- This can happen when you roll over in bed or look up quickly.
Understanding BPPV can help you know why you feel dizzy and what might help stop it. If you have more questions or concerns, talking to a healthcare provider can be helpful.
(References)
- Fife TD. (2009). Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Seminars in neurology, 19834861.
- Guerra J, & Devesa J. (2020). Causes and treatment of idiopathic benign paroxysmal .... Journal of otology, 33293917.
- Tusa RJ. (2001). Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Current neurology and neuroscience reports, 11898559.
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