Suggest Treatment For Extreme Vertigo

Posted on Sun, 26 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 26 Jul 2015 Answered on

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 89 and in generally good health. I am experiencing vertigo symptoms. First unsteady when I got up to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. The following night I noticed an episode of extreme vertigo when I turned over in bed. It passed. The next morning, (today) while doing a floor exercise routing I suffered vertigo so badly that I was afraid to try to stand. It passed. Three times in 48 hours make me feel that I shouldn't ignore this condition. It's Sunday and my only option is the emergency room which I would like to avoid.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
BPPV or cervical vertigo...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

I do understand your problem; I'll try my best to help you with this.

The symptoms described by you could be related to either benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV) or cervical vertigo. Do not worry! This doesn't seem to be a major problem. A complete examination of the neck & ear with positional tests such as Hallpike's maneuver and X-ray of the cervical spine can aid in diagnosing the actual problem.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Avoid sudden neck movements.
2. Try taking medicine such as cinnarizine or betahistine for the treatment of vertigo. In some countries it can be bought over the counter.
3. Consult your doctor on Monday.

Hope I have answered your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T