VERTIGO, SYMPTOMS, CAUSES AND HOW TO TREAT IT

Vertigo is often described as a spinning sensation that makes sufferers feel as if the world is shaking.

sofyanto

September 28, 2025

What is vertigo?

Simply put, vertigo is the feeling that the surrounding environment is spinning. This illusion makes it very difficult for sufferers to maintain their balance and can even cause nausea and vomiting.

Vertigo is not a single disease but rather a warning sign of problems with the inner ear or brain. This is because the human brain plays a key role in maintaining balance.

Causes of vertigo

There are two causes of this condition: peripheral and central vertigo. A more detailed explanation is as follows.

1. Peripheral vertigo

This type is the most common and is caused by disorders of the inner ear, namely:

a. BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)

This occurs due to the displacement of small calcium particles in the ear, disrupting the balance system.

b. Meniere's disease

This is a buildup of fluid in the ear accompanied by tinnitus (ringing) and hearing loss.

c. Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis

This is a viral infection that triggers inflammation of the nerves in the inner ear.

2. Central Vertigo

This type is very rare, but when it occurs, it can be fatal because it is related to the human brain. Causes include:

a. Stroke

b. Brain tumor

c. Medication side effects

d. Migraine

e. Multiple sclerosis

d. Acoustic neuroma (benign tumor of the vestibular nerve)

Vertigo Symptoms

People with vertigo can be identified by the following symptoms:

a. Nausea and vomiting

b. Difficulty standing due to loss of balance

c. Jerking eye movements (nystagmus)

d. Headache

e. Ringing in the ears

f. Excessive sweating

In severe attacks, symptoms can last for days, automatically disrupting daily activities.

How is vertigo diagnosed?

To confirm the diagnosis, doctors usually ask whether the patient feels normal dizziness or a sensation of the world spinning.

If vertigo is suspected, further tests will be performed, including:

1. Head-thrust test, which assesses eye movement when the head is moved.

2. Romberg test, which checks balance with the eyes closed.

3. Dix-Hallpike test, which measures eye response to sudden body movement.

Despite performing these tests, doctors will sometimes also order an MRI, CT scan, or blood test.

When to be alert?

Vertigo is generally not dangerous, but in certain circumstances, immediate medical attention is required, for example:

a. Vertigo appears suddenly without a change in position.

b. Accompanied by muscle weakness

c. Occurs with hearing loss

How to treat vertigo

Treatment for vertigo depends heavily on the underlying cause. Therefore, there are several therapy options available, including

1. Vestibular rehabilitation

Physical therapy to train the brain to adapt to balance disorders.

2. Canalith repositioning maneuver

A specific movement of the head and body aimed at returning calcium particles to their normal position in the ear

3. Medications

a. Antihistamines (e.g., betahistine)

b. Anti-nausea medications

c. Antibiotics or steroids if caused by infection

d. Diuretics for Meniere's disease sufferers.

4. Surgery

This option is a doctor's last resort if vertigo is caused by a tumor or serious brain disorder.

Can vertigo go away on its own?

In most cases, it usually subsides without special treatment. This is because the brain is able to adapt to the changes occurring in the inner ear.

However, if vertigo recurs, I recommend consulting a doctor immediately to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Vertigo is a symptom that makes sufferers feel like the world is spinning. The cause can originate in the inner ear or stem from a disorder in the brain.

While this disorder often resolves on its own, severe vertigo that appears suddenly still requires caution.

With a proper diagnosis, including physical therapy, medications, and medical procedures, this health disorder can be managed.