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What causes benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is caused by the abnormal presence of tiny fragments of debris in the inner ear, which move around and overstimulate nerves. The brain mistakenly interprets these nerve messages as changes in the body's alignment.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most common cause of vertigo. It is characterized by a sudden feeling of vertigo when your head moves. This is caused by a problem with the inner ear, which is the part of your body that controls …

What are the symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

The main symptom of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is intense but brief episodes of vertigo, brought on by changes in the position of the head.

Who gets benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is most common in adults over the age of 60, and females are more likely to experience it.

How is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo treated?

Many people will not need any treatment. When treatment is required, it is typically based on a procedure called the Epley maneuver, which involves a doctor performing certain head movements on a patient to reposition the crystals in …

Will benign paroxysmal positional vertigo clear on its own?

Many mild cases of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo will resolve on their own in a matter of weeks or months.

Can benign paroxysmal positional vertigo be prevented?

There is no known prevention for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, apart from wearing head protection during sporting activities to reduce the chance of head injuries.

Will benign paroxysmal positional vertigo keep coming back?

for some people, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo can recur.

Is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo serious?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is not a serious disorder, and there are typically no complications commonly associated with it.

How common is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is common, estimated to account for around half of all cases of vertigo in adults over the age of 60.

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About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 10 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Votes: 640 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Meniere’s disease