What is the difference between vertigo and dizziness?

Although vertigo and dizziness are often used interchangeably, dizziness is actually an umbrella term encompassing not just vertigo, but feelings of light-headedness and disorientation. So, vertigo is a form of dizziness, but not all dizziness is necessarily vertigo.

There are two types of vertigo:

1. Subjective - where you feel as though you are spinning although you are not moving.

2. Objective - where you feel as though surrounding objects are spinning.

The key thing with both vertigo and dizziness is that they are symptoms, not a disease in itself. What might cause you to feel dizzy?

BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)

BPPV is the most common cause of dizziness, characterised by sudden, severe periods of vertigo when the head is moved. It may also cause nausea and nystagmus (eyes drifting and flicking uncontrollably). These episodes can last up to 30 seconds.

To understand what’s happening during a case of BPPV, it’s important to have an understanding of the vestibular system.

Causes of BPPV

BPPV is caused by dislodged ‘ear rocks’ (otoconia) which disperse throughout the ear canal, this may occur from…

1. Head or ear injury

2. Ear infection or surgery

3. Degeneration of the inner ear

4. Viral infection of the inner ear (vestibular neuritis)

5. Meniere’s disease (disorder of the inner ear)

6. Minor strokes

How is BPPV treated?

The next step is to book in with an MVP Vestibular Physio to determine if the cause of your dizziness is vestibular.

Most cases of vertigo and specifically BPPV can be treated through vertigo exercises performed by a qualified vestibular physiotherapist. 80% of patients will experience some immediate relief from treatment and 90% report feeling better within 3 sessions.

As it is a specialist field, not all physiotherapists are qualified and experienced in vestibular physiotherapy, so it is important that you see the right health professional.