Story at-a-glance
- Vertigo causes a spinning sensation different from general dizziness and typically stems from inner ear issues, including displaced crystals (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV), infections or fluid buildup
- Diagnosis involves tests like the Dix-Hallpike maneuver to determine if ear crystals are out of place
- Physical therapy, particularly vestibular rehabilitation, helps retrain your brain to compensate for balance issues, while the Epley maneuver repositions displaced ear crystals
- Natural remedies include vitamin D, ginkgo biloba, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, staying hydrated, managing stress and getting adequate sleep
- While vertigo is usually not dangerous, seek immediate medical attention if it's accompanied by severe headache, slurred speech, weakness or vision changes
