Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: How does it work?

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In summary, the individual has scoliosis with an unknown cause and has been diagnosed with an orthopedic problem by their physiotherapist and otorhinolaryngologist. They requested a simple explanation for their condition from their vestibular physiotherapist, but were informed that it would be too technical. They also mentioned experiencing vertigo in the morning and taking medication at night, but have found that drinking coffee partially relieves their symptoms. After a 15-minute internet search, they found an article about the effects of caffeine on the vestibular system that may be related to their condition. They also experience occasional tinnitus and have difficulty walking straight.
  • #1
José Ricardo
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I have scoliosis (congenital, unknown cause), and according to my physiotherapist and my otorhinolaryngologist, the problem with my case is orthopedic. Thursday I asked my vestibular physiotherapist some article that explained my situation. I eat something or drink some juice (the vertigo goes from the morning until to the afternoon and I take medicines in the night), I get weak, but when I drink coffee, my vertigo goes away partially.

As I said earlier, I wanted some paper that explained my condition (I don't have any ear disease), but she said that would be very technical. So I would like a paper that explains this in a simple way. I would appreciate a lot. If you don't have the paper, I would appreciate of the same way.
 
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This is what I found after 15min on Google. http://www.tinnitusjournal.com/articles/caffeine-effect-in-vestibular-system.html
Note that in the Results & Discussion section there's something about the effects of caffeine on the calcium response which in turn affects the resetting of the sensory neurons (an important issue I would imagine when you have misfiring nerves causing tinnitus and vertigo.)

My little internet search is by no means conclusive but that might give you a starting point to do your own research. Do you also experience any tinnitus (persistent ringing of the ears)?
 
  • #3
jambaugh said:
This is what I found after 15min on Google.
http://www.tinnitusjournal.com/articles/caffeine-effect-in-vestibular-system.html

Note that in the Results & Discussion section there's something about the effects of caffeine on the calcium response which in turn affects the resetting of the sensory neurons (an important issue I would imagine when you have misfiring nerves causing tinnitus and vertigo)

My little internet search is by no means conclusive but that might give you a starting point to do your own research. Do you also experience any tinnitus (persistent ringing of the ears)?

Rarely, but I feel. When I walk, I fall to the right side walking.
 
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  • #4
And I appreciate you, Jam!
 

FAQ: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: How does it work?

What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common inner ear disorder that causes brief episodes of dizziness or spinning sensations, often triggered by changes in head position. It is considered to be the most common cause of vertigo.

What causes BPPV?

BPPV occurs when small calcium particles called otoconia break free from their normal location in the inner ear and float into one of the fluid-filled semicircular canals. The movement of these particles disrupts the normal fluid movement, sending false signals to the brain about the body's position and causing vertigo symptoms.

How is BPPV diagnosed?

BPPV can be diagnosed through a series of head and body movements called the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. This involves lying down and quickly turning the head in different positions to see if it triggers vertigo symptoms. Other tests, such as an electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG), may also be used to confirm a diagnosis.

How is BPPV treated?

BPPV can often be successfully treated with a series of head movements called the Epley maneuver. This maneuver helps to reposition the loose calcium particles out of the semicircular canals and into an area of the inner ear where they will not cause symptoms. In some cases, medication or surgery may be necessary for treatment.

Can BPPV be prevented?

There is no known way to prevent BPPV from occurring. However, it is more common in older individuals and can be associated with head injuries, so taking precautions to avoid falls and head injuries may help reduce the risk of developing BPPV. Additionally, minimizing exposure to situations that trigger vertigo symptoms, such as rapid head movements or looking up at the ceiling, may also help prevent BPPV episodes.

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