Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or "Benign paroxysmal vertigo" (BPV) is a condition caused by problems in the inner ear. Specifically, it is due to the malpositioning and inappropriate accumulation of particulate matter in the semicircular canals of the inner ear. The primary symptom is the sudden onset of severe vertigo that occurs exclusively with head movement in the direction of the affected ear. Patients often describe their first experience occurring while turning their head in bed. The vertigo is brief in duration -- less than 15 seconds by definition. It is often associated with nausea. Patients do not experience other neurological deficits such as slurred speech or numbnesss or weakness, and if these symptoms are present, a more concerning etiology such as posterior circulation stroke, must be considered.

The condition is diagnosed by performing the Dix-Hallpike (aka Barany) maneuver which is diagnostic for the condition. And the treatment of choice for this condition is the Epley canalith repositional maneuver which is effective in approximately 80% of patients (the Epley and Semont Maneuvers, employ gravity to move the calcium buildup that is causing the condition). Meclizine is a commonly prescribed medication, but is ineffective for this condition.

See also

• Vestibular system

External links

• eMedicine
• UCSD
• MayoClinic
• VEDA Vestibular Disorder Association webpage concerning BPPV

Otolaryngology

Benigner paroxysmaler Lagerungsschwindel