Are there times when you feel a dizzying sensation, like the world is spinning around you? You might have vertigo. Learn whether this disorienting condition can resolve on its own and find out about the treatments that can provide relief.
Have you ever experienced a sudden spinning sensation or felt as though the world around you was moving when it wasn’t? If you’re nodding in agreement, it’s quite possible you experienced vertigo.
Vertigo can cause issues with balance and trigger frustrating symptoms, such as dizziness, vision troubles, unsteadiness, and even trouble sensing the position of your body.
Many people experiencing these symptoms wonder if vertigo can go away by itself. The answer depends on the type of vertigo you have and other factors related to your health.
The good news is that with the help of the board-certified ENT providers at Advanced Specialty Associates in St. Paul and Baxter, Minnesota, you can get the help you need to treat the underlying cause of vertigo. Here’s what you need to know about this condition and how it can be resolved.
What is vertigo?
Vertigo is more than just a simple dizziness. It’s an illusion that your body or environment is moving. Here are some of the most common types of vertigo:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is one of the most common types of vertigo, and it’s caused by tiny calcium particles that get lodged in the inner ear. This causes short, intense episodes of dizziness that may manifest due to changes in head position.
Ménière’s disease
Ménière’s disease is triggered by a buildup of fluid and changing pressure in the ear. In addition to vertigo, this condition can involve ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss.
Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis
This inner ear issue is typically due to an infection. The infection affects the nerve that senses balance, leading to vertigo and a reduction in hearing.
Vertigo can also be triggered by neck injuries, brain problems — such as strokes or tumors — medications that can cause ear damage, and migraine headaches.
What are the symptoms of vertigo?
Some of the most common symptoms linked to vertigo include the following:
- A spinning sensation
- A feeling like you’re being pulled in one direction
- Unsteadiness or loss of balance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
Having a clear understanding of the causes and symptoms can significantly aid in seeking the right treatment. If you recognize the signs of vertigo, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with Advanced Specialty Associates.
Can vertigo go away without treatment?
In some instances, vertigo can resolve on its own — especially if it’s due to BPPV. Over time, the brain can adapt to changes in the inner ear and rely on other mechanisms to maintain balance.
However, just because vertigo can resolve on its own doesn’t mean it will. Unfortunately, vertigo can persist and severely impact daily activities and quality of life.
For example, conditions like Ménière’s disease or vestibular neuritis may not resolve without medical intervention. Ignoring it could even exacerbate the condition. Furthermore, the condition could indicate that there’s a more serious health problem lurking beneath.
What are the medical therapies for vertigo?
Turning to the team of board-certified otolaryngology providers at Advanced Specialty Associates is a wise choice for anyone experiencing vertigo. Getting an accurate diagnosis can help make sure the root cause is addressed.
First, your provider discusses your symptoms and medical history. Then your provider performs a physical exam and orders lab work and other necessary tests, such as an audiogram. Finally, your provider designs a plan to treat your condition. Your plan could include any of the following:
Vestibular rehabilitation
This form of physical therapy aims to strengthen the vestibular system.
Canalith repositioning maneuvers
These are guided movements that are designed to reposition calcium deposits in the inner ear.
Medication
Drugs, such as antihistamines or migraine medicines, may be able to ease the spinning sensation or treat nausea and vomiting.
Surgery
In rare cases where vertigo is severe or related to a tumor, surgical intervention might be the most effective approach.
If you’re experiencing vertigo and want treatment, or if you want to get a diagnosis, we can help. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Advanced Specialty Associates today.
