How to Get Rid of “Inner Ear Crystals” and Reduce Vertigo
If by “inner-ear crystals” you mean benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the problem is usually tiny calcium-carbonate crystals (otoconia) that have moved into one of the inner-ear balance canals. When you move your head, the crystals can trigger brief spinning sensations.
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University Hospitals Sussex
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The treatment that actually moves the crystals
For the most common type of BPPV, the Epley repositioning maneuver is often very effective. It uses a sequence of head and body positions to move the crystals back to a part of the ear where they no longer cause vertigo. Many people improve after one treatment, although it sometimes needs to be repeated.
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UHS
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If your vertigo happens when turning over in bed, getting into/out of bed, or looking up or down, BPPV is particularly possible.
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UHCW
Can you do the Epley maneuver at home?
Yes, if BPPV has been identified and you know which ear is affected. For example, a right-sided Epley starts with your head turned about 45° toward the right, followed by a series of controlled positions. You wait about a minute—or until the dizziness settles—at each position.
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EKHUFT Leaflets
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Because the maneuver deliberately provokes vertigo, it’s sensible to have someone with you the first few times, particularly if you’re older or at risk of falling.
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Royal United Hospitals Bath
Don’t perform a home maneuver without medical guidance if you have significant neck or back problems, severe mobility limitations, or another condition that makes these head movements unsafe.
What if it isn’t BPPV?
Not every episode of vertigo is caused by crystals. Inner-ear infections, Ménière’s disease, migraine, medication effects, low blood pressure, and neurological problems can produce dizziness too. Different types of BPPV may require different repositioning maneuvers.
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Royal Berkshire NHS
Get urgent medical help if
Vertigo is new and severe or occurs with weakness/numbness, difficulty speaking, facial drooping, double vision, severe headache, fainting, inability to walk, chest pain, or new hearing loss. These symptoms can indicate something more serious than BPPV.
If you tell me which movement triggers your vertigo—turning to the right, turning to the left, getting out of bed, or looking up/down—I can explain the appropriate Epley sequence step by step.
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