What is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?

Updated on

What is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an inner ear disorder in which changes in the position of the head, such as tipping the head backward, lead to sudden vertigo – a feeling that the room is spinning. The vertigo sensation can range from mild to severe and usually lasts only a few minutes. It may be accompanied by other symptoms, including:

  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • A sense of imbalance
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Anatomy of the right inner ear

BPPV is not a sign of a serious problem, and it usually disappears on its own within 6 weeks of the first episode. However, the symptoms of BPPV can be very frightening and may be dangerous, especially in older people. About half of all people over age 65 suffer an episode of BPPV. The unsteadiness caused by BPPV can lead to falls, which are a leading cause of fractures in this age range.

Related posts