Vertigo treatment

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Q:  I was told that WSLS presented a story on the noon show about vertigo and that there is a treatment. I missed that story and I’m very interested in it!!

Thank you!
Lynn Bailey
Bedford, Va.

A:  WSLS did feature a story from NBC about Vertigo.  According to the report the most common cause of vertigo is called Benign Paroxysmal Position Vertigo, or BPPV.  When crystals in the ears get displaced the brain signals can get messed up which can cause a dizzy feeling.

Dr. Geoffrey Harter with Jefferson Surgical Clinic says, “The crystals that are normally there become dislodged.  It is usually something that happens spontaneously but can come with a head injury or whiplash injury.”

The technique in the story is an exercise that is supposed to get those crystals to go back where they belong.  You must make sure you are suffering from BPPV before doing the exercises.  If you have another form of vertigo the exercises may agitate the condition.  The initial evaluation of vertigo is called a Hallpike test. 

The techniques used to get the crystals back in place are called the Semont or Epley maneuvers.  Some primary care doctors and physical therapists are able to show you how to do the exercises properly.  Once your doctor has shown you how to do the exercises properly you can do them on your own.

Dr. Harter says, “You can actually send patients home and have them do it three times a day until they are symptom free for twenty four hours most patients will get better.”