BPPV or in full Benign paraxosymal positional vertigo is a common disorder affecting ones inner ear. It is as a result of dislodging of crystals that subsequently interfere with how messages are sent to the brain. As a consequence, the patient would feel nauseated, have dizzy spells, become unsteady and perhaps even vertigo.
BPPV treatment Toronto however helps patients recover from the disorder.
Symptoms arise when the position of ones head is abruptly changed. For instance, when an individual looks up or rolls over the bed suddenly. Symptoms do not last long, as they come and go. Each episode lasts for a few seconds, and one may not experience an event for weeks or even months until they decide to come back. The hope for patients is BPPV treatment.
Doctors use medical history, specialized diagnostic tests, and physical examinations to diagnose the disorder. It is important to note that the condition is not always dangerous and hence, some people shrug it off. It may or may not get better, either way it is harmless unless in cases where there is a high probability of falling.
Seeking treatment early enough ensures one is not at a risk of falling. There are several treatment options at the disposal of the patient. One of them is called canalith or particle repositioning that rectifies the situation with the aid of simple maneuvers intended to change the position of these crystals. If completed, the crystals move to a place where they do not sabotage sending of messages to the brain. A patient may learn from the doctor how to carry out the procedure to it by themselves later.
Even after a successful particle repositioning procedure, some patients experience dizziness for months. This is why doctors restrict activity to ensure a significant reduction in the risk of debris returning to the area of the ear where they have been removed from. For instance, using a cervical collar over the neck to restrict quick head turns or sleeping on two pillows to ensure elevation.
Doctors may suggest surgery if all other methods do not work. It is very effective as its success rate is over 90%. In the surgical approach, a bone plug is used to block the regions of the brain that causes dizziness. Also, some patients may opt for a wait and see, a method that primarily involves waiting to see if symptoms persist.
After training from the doctor about how treating this condition, a patient is required to continue performing the exercises at home. However, if one is not careful, it may worsen or start other problems in the ear canal. Another quick fix is the use of motion sickness medications to control nausea and also help with dizziness.
BPPV is rarely a serious condition. However, when it has a risk for falling, it needs to be treated. Falling as a result of dizziness while driving or in risky activities such as skiing or hiking may be fatal. Diagnosis is easy as it can be made at the doctors office. There are several treatment options at the disposal of a patient.
