Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) may go away in a few weeks by itself. If treatment is needed, it usually consists of head exercises (Reference Epley and Semont maneuvers). These exercises will move the particles out of the semicircular canals of your Reference inner ear Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window to a place where they will not cause vertigo.

Over time, your brain may react less and less to the confusing signals triggered by the particles in the inner ear. This is called Reference compensation Opens New Window. Compensation occurs most quickly if you continue normal head movements, even though doing so causes the whirling sensation of vertigo. A Reference Brandt-Daroff exercise may also be done to speed the compensation process.

Medicines called vestibular suppressants (such as Reference antihistamines, Reference sedatives, or Reference scopolamine) may be tried if your symptoms are severe. But using medicines to control vertigo often extends the time needed for compensation to occur.

Reference Antiemetic medicines may also be used to reduce nausea and vomiting that can occur with vertigo.

In rare cases, surgery may be used to treat BPPV.

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