Vertigo is the sensation that either you or the world around you is spinning. Some people simply feel off balance. Some feel like they are rocking on a boat. Vertigo can be caused by problems with the brain, vision, musculoskeletal system, and also by the inner ear. At ENT Specialists of Austin, we are experts at diagnosing and treating vertigo caused by the inner ear.

The most common inner ear conditions that tend to cause vertigo are:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

In this disorder, small calcium carbonate crystals within the inner ear are dislodged and move into a different region of the inner ear. When this happens, simple movement of the head can trick your brain into thinking you are spinning. This sensation last only a few seconds once you stop moving your head.

Migraine-associated Vertigo

This is a very common cause of vertigo. Importantly, there does not need to be a headache during an episode of vertigo. The duration of the vertigo can be short or last many hours. The sensation can be that of room-spinning or just mild lightheadedness.

Meniere’s Disease

This disorder is also called endolymphatic hydrops. It is characterized by fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), ear pressure, and vertigo. People will typically experience loud tinnitus and diminished hearing that is followed by a severe room-spinning sensation lasting several hours. Unfortunately, the hearing loss in Meniere’s disease can sometimes be lost permanently.

Vestibular Neuritis

This disorder is caused by viral inflammation of the balance nerve. It is characterized by severe vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. Most patients require about one week to recover.

If the diagnosis remains uncertain, we will employ balance testing in order to further characterize your disorder. The appropriate treatment can then be initiated to get the problem resolved.