If you’re experiencing vertigo caused by inner ear crystals, you may be dealing with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). This happens when tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged, disrupting balance. Here’s how to manage and reduce symptoms:
1. Epley Maneuver (Canalith Repositioning)
This is the most common technique to move the crystals back to their proper place.
Steps (simplified):
- Sit on a bed and turn your head 45° toward the affected ear.
- Lie back quickly with your head slightly hanging off the edge. Stay for 30 seconds.
- Turn your head 90° to the other side without lifting it. Stay 30 seconds.
- Roll your body onto the side you’re facing, turning your head slightly down. Hold 30 seconds.
- Slowly sit up.
Often repeated 2–3 times, sometimes over several days. A physical therapist or ENT can guide you safely.
2. Semont Maneuver
- Another repositioning technique for BPPV.
- Involves quick movements from one side to the other while lying down.
- Best done under professional supervision to prevent dizziness-related falls.
3. Vestibular Rehabilitation Exercises
- Head and eye movement exercises help retrain your brain and inner ear to maintain balance.
- Examples: focusing on a fixed object while moving your head, or balance exercises on different surfaces.
4. Lifestyle and Safety Tips
- Avoid sudden head movements until symptoms improve.
- Get up slowly from lying or sitting positions.
- Use support rails or furniture to prevent falls.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated for a few nights.
5. When to See a Doctor
- Vertigo persists longer than a few weeks.
- You experience hearing loss, ringing in the ears, severe headache, or neurological symptoms.
- Your vertigo is frequent or worsening.
An ENT (ear, nose, and throat specialist) can confirm BPPV and may perform maneuvers in-office for quicker relief.
💡 Quick Tip: Most people feel relief after 1–3 Epley maneuvers, but sometimes repeated sessions are needed. Avoid self-manipulating if you have neck or spine issues—professional guidance is safest.
I can make a step-by-step visual guide for the Epley maneuver so you can safely try it at home and reduce vertigo. Do you want me to do that?
