Crystals in your ear cause vertigo

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo happens when tiny calcium carbonate crystals in your inner ear get dislodged and travel into the semicircular canals. A sudden head movement like rolling over in bed or tipping your head back triggers the spinning sensation.

It feels worse than it is

BPPV episodes last 15 to 60 seconds but can make you feel dizzy, unsteady, sweaty, and nauseous. Despite the name, it doesn't feel benign when you experience it, and it can increase your risk of falling.

“The term 'benign' is the first part of the phrase, it does not feel benign when you experience it.”

Who gets BPPV most often

BPPV affects twice as many women as men and is most common between ages 40 and 70. Head trauma and dental procedures involving drilling are common triggers, and people with conditions like diabetes, migraine, or osteoporosis are at higher risk.

A simple eye test diagnoses it

The Dix-Hallpike maneuver is the easiest way to diagnose BPPV. A doctor moves you between sitting and lying down while watching your eyes for nystagmus, involuntary eye movements that confirm the diagnosis.

“somebody just needed to lay them down and look at their eyes”

The Epley maneuver fixes it

The first-line treatment is the Epley maneuver, a series of specific head and body movements that reposition the crystals back where they belong. Research shows it works in over 80% of people with BPPV.

Skip the medications

Doctors sometimes prescribe vestibular suppressants like benzodiazepines to mask symptoms, but experts advise against them because they don't fix the underlying problem and increase your risk of falling.

Prevent it from coming back

About 20% of people experience BPPV again after treatment. Taking vitamin D supplements, staying hydrated, and doing regular aerobic exercise can reduce your chances of recurrence.

“If you take vitamin D supplements, you're less likely to get a recurrence of BPPV.”