Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo or BPPV is a common condition of the vestibular system.

Benign = Non-life threatening
Paroxysmal = Comes and goes suddenly
Positional = Comes and goes with changes in position
Vertigo = Spinning or other illusion of movement

Otoconia (calcium carbonate crystals) which normally sit on sensory organs such as the utricle in the inner ear, can become displaced and enter one of the the tunnel-like semicircular canals, causing an abnormal signal to the brain and eyes. This causes symptoms of vertigo in particular positions, most commonly rolling in bed, getting in/out of bed, and bending forwards or looking up.

How do I know if I have BPPV? What is the treatment?
BPPV can be assessed and treated by a trained physiotherapist. They will examine your eye movements in particular positions to see what type of BPPV you have - this is best done through Infra Red Camera Goggles. Then they will perform what is called a repositioning manoeuvre, which will reposition the crystals out of the canal and stop symptoms. Many cases will resolve after one treatment, while others may require two or three treatments.