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This dizziness can be relieved

This dizziness can be relieved

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is by far the most common type of dizziness, affecting 3 -to-4 percent of the population at some point. Some people have a single, brief attack, whereas others can have repeated and sometimes prolonged episodes.

The condition is more common in people over 50, in women more than in men (3:1), in persons with osteopenia or osteoporosis and those low in vitamin D. Dizziness typically occurs while rolling over in bed, getting in or out or tilting the head back or for- ward. Many patients also have nausea.

BPPV is caused by little dislodged crystals getting into one of the ear’s three semi-circular canals that stimulate nerve endings, leading to a vertiginous nerve signal being sent to the brain. Therapy involves special head maneuvers to reposition the out- of-place crystals. An accurate diagnosis and instruction in proper therapeutic maneuvers are best done at a balance center.