Vertigo When Laying On Back, Dizziness. What Should I Do?

Posted on Thu, 21 Mar 2013

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

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 Answered on

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I am having increasing insidents of vertigo since laying on my back for a facial. In 2005 I had an acf levels 3-5. Now when I turn over in bed especially to my left I get dizzy....but when upon arising the dizziness lingers for some time. Ocasionally half a day. I am afraid to drive or got anywhere. What should I do. I have been to an orthopedic physician with no help, it wasn't my ears or neurological problems...then theynlet me go. Can unhelp? Had this problem a year or more ago. Itmeventuallymsubsuded bitnis now back since the facial where I laid on my back,
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Answered by Dr. Hema Yadav (2 hours later)

Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
It seems that you are most probably suffering from benign positional paroxysmal vertigo ( BPPV)which can start suddenly and occur in episodes ( paroxysms). The neurological and ear examination in such cases are usually normal and for confirming the diagnosis one needs to be evaluated by a vestibular specialist who can carry out the hall pike or epplys test etc used for diagnosing vertigo .
If your doctor ( ENT or neurophysician ) have ruled out BPPV then you can undergo a cervical vertigo test by the vestibular specialist . Some chiropractors or physical therapists are also experienced to deal with such problems.
Since you are already seeing an orthopedist it would be better to discuss your problem frankly so that he can refer you to an appropriate specialist.
In case your doctors have already evaluated you for such condition do let me know your investigation reports.
Hope I have answered your query
Please feel free to ask any further queries.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar