vertigo specialist near me refers to a feeling of spinning or dizziness which can alter your balance and spatial orientation. Vertigo is a common condition with many causes, which can be broadly categorized into peripheral and central causes. Knowing the causes of vertigo can help in diagnosing and managing vertigo in a way that is effective.

Peripheral Causes

The majority of vertigo cases are due to causes that are peripheral that involve the inner ear and its connected structures.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): BPPV is one of the most frequent vertigo-related causes. It occurs by tiny carbonate crystals of calcium, called Otoconia, are displaced from their usual location within the inner ear and move into the semicircular canals. The displacement causes disruption to the flow of blood within the canals, leading to unusual signals being sent to the brain, resulting in an ear-spin sensation.

Meniere’s Disease: This disorder is characterised by vertigo-like episodes as well as hearing loss that fluctuates tinnitus (ringing in the ear) as well as a feeling of a swollen ear. Meniere’s disease is believed to be related to the abnormal formation of fluid inside the ear, although the exact cause of this buildup of fluid is not completely known.

Vestibular Neuritis type of condition is caused by inflammation in the vestibular nerve, that is responsible for transmitting balance information from the inner ear to the brain. The inflammation is usually caused by a viral infection that can lead to severe and sudden vertigo. It can also be accompanied by nausea and an imbalance.

Labyrinthitis: Labyrinthitis is an inflammation or ailment of the labyrinth, a structure within the inner ear that helps control equilibrium and hear. It can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, and can be accompanied by vertigo, loss of hearing, and the sensation of tinnitus.

Central Causes

Vertigo’s central causes stem from issues within the brain or the central nervous system.

Migrainous Vertigo: Also known as vestibular migraine. This type of vertigo is associated with migraine headaches. It can occur with or without headaches. It is distinguished by repeated vertigo episodes that are accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to sound and light.

Stroke: A stroke or cerebrovascular incident, can cause vertigo when it affects the parts of the brain responsible for coordination and balance. Vertigo caused by stroke can be sudden and be caused by other signs such as severe headache or numbness, trouble speaking or concentrating to one or the other side.

The condition is known as Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a chronic disease which affects central nerves, which can lead to a range of symptoms including vertigo. The cause is damage to the myelin sheath that can disrupt communication between nerves relating to balance.

The brain is a place of growth. Tumors that affect the brain, especially those that are located in the areas that control coordination and balance, may cause vertigo. The symptoms may differ based on the size of the tumor as well as its the location, and may include dizziness, balance, or neurological problems.

Conclusion

Vertigo is a complex symptom with a myriad of underlying causes. Although peripheral reasons are the most prevalent, the central cause must not be ignored especially when vertigo is associated with other neurological symptoms. If you experience vertigo, it is essential to seek a medical examination to identify the root cause and receive appropriate treatment. Knowing the possible causes of vertigo will help you manage it effectively and improve the quality of your living.