Vertigo is more than just dizziness, it’s a sensation where the room feels like it is spinning or tilting. This condition often originates from the inner ear, which controls balance. When the inner ear is affected by infection, fluid imbalance or movement of tiny crystals, a person may experience sudden episodes of spinning, nausea or imbalance. Vertigo can come unexpectedly and may last from a few minutes to several hours.
Many patients ignore vertigo or assume it is only due to weakness, but the underlying cause can vary widely. Some types of vertigo, like BPPV, can be corrected quickly with specific head-positioning maneuvers. Others may require medication or further evaluation. Accurate diagnosis is important because vertigo affects daily activities, driving and overall stability.
Common symptoms of vertigo include:
Spinning sensation
Nausea or vomiting
Unsteady walking
Difficulty focusing
Sudden imbalance
If vertigo occurs repeatedly or affects your routine, an ENT evaluation can help identify the cause and provide effective treatment.