Why does Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) cause dizziness when lying down?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a condition where tiny crystals in your inner ear become dislodged. These crystals, called otoliths, usually help you sense movement. When they move out of place, they can float into the ear canals and cause dizziness or a spinning feeling, especially when you change positions, like lying down or turning over in bed.

Why Does This Happen?

1. Inner Ear Structure: Your inner ear has tiny canals filled with fluid and sensors that help you keep your balance.
2. Role of Crystals: The crystals normally sit in a special part of the ear, but if they move into the canals, they can send wrong signals to your brain.
3. Triggering Dizziness: When you lie down, turn your head, or roll over, the movement of these crystals can make you feel dizzy because your brain gets mixed signals about your body's position.

What Can Be Done?

• Diagnosis: Doctors can perform specific tests to check for BPPV.
• Treatments: Simple head movements, known as maneuvers, can help move the crystals back to their proper place.

Understanding BPPV can help you know why you feel dizzy and what can be done to manage it.