BPPV
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, also called BPPV, causes dizzy spells as a result of free-floating calcium particles (otoconia) within the fluid of one of the semi-circular balance canals within the inner ear which have become trapped. BPPV is characterized by short episodes of room spinning dizziness(vertigo) with quick head movements, or rolling over in bed.
In some cases, BPPV can follow a head injury or an inner ear infection. Sometimes it may arise after ear surgery or following a migraine headache. However, in most individuals, there is no preceding illness or precipitating cause.
This condition can be treated with a repositioning maneuver. With one maneuver, we can successfully fix this problem approximately 80% of the time. With as many as three treatments, the maneuver becomes 95% successful. A significant number of people may have recurrence weeks, months, or even years after the successful treatment. Fortunately, it can be treated again successfully with a repeat maneuver.
Instructions After Office Treatment1. Sleep semi-recumbent for the next night. This means sleep with your head halfway between being flat and upright (45 degree angle). During the day, try to keep your head vertical (upright).2. For at least one week, avoid provoking head positions that may bring on BPPV again. Use two pillows when you sleep, avoid sleeping on the ‘bad’ side. Don’t turn your head far up or far down.3. After one week, put yourself in the position that usually makes you dizzy. Let your doctor know how you did.
Self-Treatment
Below are diagrams describing the self-treament as well some helpful links to try the maneuver yourself
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llvUbxEoadQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY4UeRmTYmA&t=16s
