What exactly is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and how does it affect the inner ear?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, or BPPV, is a condition that affects the inner ear, which helps control your balance. Inside your ear, there are small crystals that can sometimes move out of place. When these crystals end up in the wrong spot, they can make you feel dizzy or like the room is spinning. This usually happens when you move your head in certain ways, like when you look up or down, or when you turn over in bed.

How BPPV Affects the Inner Ear

• Inner Ear Structure: The inner ear has tiny canals filled with fluid. These canals help you keep your balance.
• Role of Crystals: Normally, crystals in your ear help detect movement. When they move to the wrong place, they confuse your balance system.
• Symptoms: The main symptom is dizziness, especially when changing head positions.

BPPV is common and can be bothersome, but it is usually not serious. Doctors can often treat it with specific head movements that help move the crystals back to where they belong.