The most commonly used is the Epley maneuver, which can be very effective for many people with BPPV. A healthcare professional can perform it and determine which ear and which canal are affected. Some people are also taught how to do it safely at home after receiving a diagnosis.
Other tips that may help include:
- Move slowly when getting out of bed or changing positions.
- Sit down immediately if you become dizzy to reduce the risk of falling.
- Stay well hydrated and get adequate sleep, as fatigue can make dizziness feel worse.
- Avoid driving or climbing ladders if you’re having active episodes of vertigo.
It’s important to know that not all vertigo is caused by inner ear crystals. Vertigo can also result from conditions such as Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis, migraine, certain medications, or, less commonly, neurological conditions. The appropriate treatment depends on the cause.
Seek urgent medical care if your dizziness is accompanied by:
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or walking
- Double vision or sudden vision loss
- A severe, sudden headache
- Chest pain or loss of consciousness
These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition than BPPV.
If your vertigo is recurrent, severe, or lasts longer than a minute or two with each episode, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional for an evaluation. They can confirm whether BPPV is the cause and perform the correct repositioning maneuver.
If you’d like, I can also explain the Epley maneuver step by step or help you determine whether your symptoms sound like BPPV or another type of dizziness.
