- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common inner-ear disorder that causes sudden, intense episodes of vertigo (dizziness), typically lasting 30-60 seconds and often triggered by specific head movements like looking up or bending down.
- The cause is physical: tiny crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear separate from their membrane and move into the balance-regulating Vestibular Labyrinth, sending confusing signals to the brain.
- A classic symptom is "Top Shelf Vertigo," which is the spinning sensation experienced when tilting the head backward (e.g., when reaching for a high shelf).
- Fortunately, BPPV is often treatable using gentle head and body movements known as Canalith Repositioning Procedures (the most well-known being the Epley manoeuvre).
- If you suspect you have BPPV, it is important to consult a specialist—such as an audiologist, vestibular physiotherapist, or ENT—for diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan to reduce the risk of falls.
What is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and how do I treat it?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common inner-ear disorder that can cause sudden episodes of dizziness, known as vertigo. It affects the balance (vestibular) system in the inner ear, and its symptoms are usually triggered by certain head movements, such as looking up, bending down, or turning around quickly.
One of the most common symptoms of BPPV is called "Top Shelf Vertigo." This is a spinning sensation people experience when they tilt their head back to look up at something, such as reaching up to a high shelf or gazing upward while climbing a ladder. Dizziness usually lasts around 30-60 seconds and may be accompanied by nausea. Milder symptoms of BPPV are often described as ongoing feelings of unsteadiness or light-headedness, especially when a person's head is tilted toward their affected ear.
BPPV happens when tiny crystals in the inner ear (called otoconia) separate from a membrane and move into an area called the Vestibular Labyrinth. These tiny, semicircular canals normally help the brain track your head's rotation and movement, but when the crystals are in the wrong place, they can send confusing signals that cause dizziness or vertigo.
Fortunately, BPPV can be treated. The most common treatment is a series of gentle head and body movements known as Canalith Repositioning Procedures. The most well-known of these movements is the Epley manoeuvre, which helps reposition the crystals (otoconia) into a region where they'll no longer trigger BPPV symptoms.
If you think you may have BPPV, it's important to see a specialist as soon as possible to reduce your risk of falls and fall-related injuries. An audiologist, a specialised physiotherapist with vestibular expertise, or an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat specialist) will assess your symptoms and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual experience. To book an appointment with your local Resonate Health audiologist, give us a call on 0800 737 662 or book online here*
Hi, I’m Craig, the audiologist at Resonate New Plymouth.
