That Spinning Sensation:
Could It Be BPPV?
That Spinning Sensation:
Could It Be BPPV?
When living with chronic illness.
If you’ve ever experienced vertigo, you probably remember exactly when it first hit.
For Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT, it was during an ice water caloric test on her very first clinical rotation... not exactly the first day that she had in mind. For many of our patients though, their first experience with vertigo comes out of seemingly nowhere:
- Rolling over in bed
- Sitting up first thing in the morning
- Leaning back into the hairdresser’s sink
- Or even mid-downward dog in yoga class
One minute you're fine. The next, the whole room is spinning. And for some, the experience is so intense it leads to nausea, panic... or even a trip to the emergency department.
What Is BPPV?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common causes of vertigo, and it happens when tiny calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) in your inner ear become dislodged and migrate into an area of the inner ear that they don’t belong.
When you move your head, gravity causes these crystals to shift, sending false signals to your brain and triggering the sensation of spinning. Once the crystals settle, the sensation typically fades, often within a minute, but the experience can be alarming. Want more? Watch our video explaining what BPPV is and how it occurs here.
Why It's Often Misunderstood
Vertigo is a symptom, not a diagnosis. But when BPPV strikes, it can feel like a full-blown emergency. Many people fear they’re having a stroke or serious neurological event and end up in the emergency department.
If everything comes back “normal” after scans and testing, they’re typically told they have vertigo, they're handed a prescription for Meclizine, and then they're sent home... still dizzy, and still without real answers.
While some are fortunate to see a provider who recognizes BPPV and performs positional testing and subsequent treatment right away, many spend weeks navigating referrals, wait times, and mounting medical costs before getting the right diagnosis and treatment.
What to Do If You Suspect BPPV
If you've experienced sudden spinning when rolling over in bed, sitting up, or tilting your head back, it could be BPPV. The good news? BPPV is one of the most treatable causes of vertigo... but proper diagnosis is key!
Here’s What We Recommend:
- Watch our "What Is BPPV" video to better understand the condition.
- See a vestibular specialist who can test and treat you for BPPV.
- Visit our BPPV Resource Hub for free information on how to treat posterior and horizontal canal BPPV.
- Book a free 10-minute discovery call with our team to see if we're a good fit for your care and be connected to additional resources.
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Looking for personalized support in managing your dizziness? Our vestibular therapists are here to help. Learn more about our virtual services and self-help courses at www.balancingactrehab.com or email us at info@balancingactrehab.com.
Disclaimer: This content on this website is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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