Vertigo Causes
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Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo is often caused by problems in the nerves and structures of the inner ear, called the vestibular system. This system senses the position of your head and body in space as they move.
Vertigo can be due to the following conditions:
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Tiny particles naturally present in the canals of the inner ear, dislodge, and move abnormally when the head is tilted, pushing ear fluid against hair-like sensors in the ear. BPPV may result from:
- Head injury
- Infections
- Disorders of the inner ear
- Age-related breakdown of the vestibular system
- Labyrinthitis (vestibular neuritis)-inflammation of the inner ear, often follows an upper respiratory infection (this is a less specific diagnosis)
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Meniere's Disease
This condition results from fluid buildup in the part of the inner ear called the labyrinth. This vertigo usually occurs along with hearing loss and Tinnitus.
Acoustic Neuroma
This is a slow-growing, noncancerous tumor of the acoustic nerve. The tumor can compress the nerves of responsible for hearing and balance. This can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and vertigo.
Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency
This refers to diminished blood flow to the base of the brain often caused by Atherosclerosis (deposits of fat in the arteries). It is usually accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
Medications and Other Substances
Examples include:
- Aspirin
- Streptomycin
- Gentamicin
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Anticonvulsants
- Antihypertensives
- Tranquilizers
