How to Get Rid of Inner Ear Crystals and Reduce Vertigo

If you experience sudden dizziness or a spinning sensation when turning your head, lying down, or getting out of bed, the cause may be loose inner ear crystals. This condition is commonly known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

Despite the name, these “crystals” are not actual stones in the ear. They are tiny calcium carbonate particles called otoconia that normally help your inner ear sense movement and balance. Sometimes they become dislodged and move into the fluid-filled canals of the inner ear, confusing your balance system and causing vertigo.

Common Signs of BPPV

You may notice:

• A spinning sensation lasting seconds to a minute
• Dizziness when rolling over in bed
• Feeling dizzy when looking up or down
• Nausea during episodes
• A feeling of imbalance after the spinning stops

BPPV usually does not cause hearing loss, fainting, or constant dizziness.

The Epley Manoeuvre: A Common Treatment

The Epley manoeuvre is a series of head and body movements designed to guide the loose crystals back to their correct position.

A healthcare professional can perform it, and many people are taught how to do it at home once the affected side is identified.

General Steps (Right Side Example)

1. Sit on a bed and turn your head about 45 degrees to the right.
2. Quickly lie back with your shoulders on the pillow and your head slightly tilted back.
3. Stay in this position for about 30–60 seconds.
4. Turn your head about 90 degrees to the left.
5. Wait again.
6. Roll onto your left side while turning your head slightly downward.
7. Slowly sit up.

Movements should be done carefully, as they may briefly trigger dizziness.

Important: The correct manoeuvre depends on which ear is affected. If you are unsure, a healthcare professional can confirm the diagnosis.

Other Ways to Reduce Vertigo Symptoms

1. Move Slowly

When getting out of bed:

• Sit up gradually.
• Pause before standing.
• Avoid sudden head movements during an episode.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen feelings of dizziness in some people.

3. Avoid Driving During Episodes

If vertigo is unpredictable or severe, avoid activities where sudden dizziness could be dangerous.

4. Sleep With Your Head Slightly Elevated

Some people find this reduces symptoms, although it does not replace treatment for BPPV.

What Usually Does Not Help

• Trying to “shake” the crystals loose
• Putting drops or oils into the ear
• Ear candling (which can be dangerous)
• Taking vertigo medicines for long periods without medical advice

Medicines may reduce nausea or dizziness temporarily, but they usually do not reposition the crystals.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if:

• Vertigo is new and severe.
• Symptoms last hours or days rather than seconds.
• You have hearing loss, ringing in one ear, or ear pain.
• You experience weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, severe headache, fainting, or vision problems.
• You have repeated episodes that do not improve.

These symptoms can point to causes other than BPPV and may require urgent assessment.