Published on: 6/26/2025
How does Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) contribute to feeling off-balance?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) makes you feel off-balance because it affects your inner ear, which helps you stay steady.
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Explanation
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of dizziness and feeling off-balance. It happens when tiny crystals in your inner ear get loose and move around. Your inner ear helps you keep your balance, so when these crystals move, it sends confusing signals to your brain. This can make you feel like the room is spinning or make you feel unsteady.
How BPPV Affects Balance:
- Inner Ear Role: The inner ear is like a balance center. It tells your brain how your head is moving.
- Loose Crystals: When crystals move in the ear, they make your brain think you are moving when you are not.
- Feeling Dizzy: This can make you feel dizzy and off-balance, especially when you move your head quickly.
Who Can Have BPPV?
- BPPV can happen to anyone, but it is more common in older adults.
- It's important to talk to a doctor if you feel dizzy often, as there are treatments that can help fix the problem.
(References)
- Mitchell MB, & Bhattacharyya N. (2023). Balance Disorder Trends in US Adults 2008-2016. OTO open, 37287493.
- Eibling D. (2018). Balance Disorders in Older Adults. Clinics in geriatric medicine, 29661330.
- Walley M, Anderson E, Pippen MW, & Maitland G. (2014). Dizziness and Loss of Balance in Individuals With Diabetes. Clinical diabetes : a publication of the American Diabetes Association, 26130865.
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