Dizziness and vertigo are extremely common complaints seen in the neurology clinic. Although these are common symptoms, they are fairly nonspecific and can be due to a large number of neurological disorders. Fortunately, in most cases, the cause of these symptoms is relatively benign.
One of the most common causes of dizziness is benign positional vertigo. This section provides further input on this disorder and treatment.
Benign positional vertigo is due to dysfunction of the vestibular system. In this condition tiny crystals in the inner ear (otoconia) become displaced into the semicircular canal. Additional movements result in abnormal movement of these crystals. This results in abnormal input to the brain regarding position of the body. This causes a sensation of dizziness or vertigo.
One of the most common causes of dizziness is benign positional vertigo. This section provides further input on this disorder and treatment.
Benign positional vertigo is due to dysfunction of the vestibular system. In this condition tiny crystals in the inner ear (otoconia) become displaced into the semicircular canal. Additional movements result in abnormal movement of these crystals. This results in abnormal input to the brain regarding position of the body. This causes a sensation of dizziness or vertigo.
_______________________________________________________________
|
This is a video illustration of the vestibular system.
This video shows the three semicircular canals. Inside these canals (tubes) is a clear fluid. Movement of the head results in flow of the fluid which causes stimulation of special receptors. These receptors send signals to the brain describing the movement that has occurred. The next video shows the area of the receptors for the semicicular canals. This structure is called the ampulla. The vestibular receptors are located in the ampulla. There are the structures that convert movement into electrical signals that the brain can interpret. The ampulla consists of tiny hair cells covered with a gelatinous substance. On top of the gelatinous matrix sit small crystals, the otoconia. When these small crystals become displaced out of the ampulla into the canal itself, the symptoms of benign positional vertigo develop. |
|
_______________________________________________________________
|
The treatment consists of repositioning maneuvers. These are illustrated here in this video. The optimal maneuvers will vary depending of which canal is most affected.
|
|
|
|
|
Meniere's Disease:
Another form of vertigo is due to a different condition known as Meniere's disease:
