Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, January 2009.
Answers to questions about benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Is feeling dizzy the same as having vertigo?
- Can I drive if I'm diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?
- What will happen when I have the Epley manoeuvre?
Is feeling dizzy the same as having vertigo?
No. Vertigo is just one specific form of dizziness. You can feel dizzy without having vertigo.
Explanation
If you feel dizzy, it means that you feel light headed or unsteady. People often feel dizzy before they faint. It can be a reaction to a strong emotion, to standing still for a long time or to standing up too quickly. Dizziness and fainting are very common and in most cases not serious. However, you should still be checked by your GP if you faint or feel dizzy.
Many other things can also make you feel dizzy, such as problems with your heart, thyroid problems and some conditions related to your brain.
Vertigo is just one specific type of dizziness, which is caused by a problem with your inner ear. If you have vertigo, it means that you have a sensation as if you, or things around you are moving, even when you are standing.
Sources
- Simon C, Everitt H, Kendrick T. Oxford Handbook of General Practice. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005:928
- Dizziness and vertigo. ENT.UK - the British Association of Otorhinolaryngologists - Head & Neck Surgeons. www.entuk.org, accessed 15 May 2008
Can I drive if I'm diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?
You will need to stop driving if you are diagnosed with BPPV. However, you will be allowed to start driving again once your symptoms are satisfactorily controlled.
Explanation
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) medical standards for fitness to drive state that you must stop driving if you are diagnosed with any condition that causes sudden attacks of unprovoked or unprecipitated disabling giddiness. This includes BPPV. You will have to notify the DVLA of your condition. If your symptoms are satisfactorily controlled, the DVLA is likely to allow you to continue driving. Your doctor can advise you of when this is.
You must be symptom-free and completely controlled for at least a year to be able to have a Group 2 license (for large goods vehicles and passenger carrying vehicles).
Contact the DVLA via their website or by telephone or writing for further information.
Further information
- Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
www.dvla.gov.uk
Sources
- At a glance guide to the current medical standards of fitness to drive. Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, February 2008
What will happen when I have the Epley manoeuvre?
The Epley manoeuvre involves four specific movements of the head and body. It is considered to be safe and effective.
Explanation
When you have the Epley manoeuvre, you will be asked to sit upright at the end of a table. The doctor/physiotherapist will lay you down on your back and tilt your head back over the edge of the table and to one side. He or she will then slowly rotate your head towards the other side, finally tilting your whole body and head over, until you are almost facing the floor. You will then be brought back up to a sitting position.
You are likely to experience symptoms of vertigo as you go through the different positions - this shows that the manoeuvre is working.
The Epley manoeuvre has been shown to be effective in stopping the symptoms of BPPV. However, it doesn't work for everyone.
The technique shouldn't feel painful. However, if you have problems with pain in your neck, you may not be able to carry out all the necessary movements. The technique can also make some people feel sick because of the vertigo. You should ask someone to accompany you home as you may feel unsteady - and should not drive yourself.
You should not attempt to carry out this procedure by yourself, unless you have been shown how by a doctor. He or she will show you how to carry out the procedure safely and correctly.
Sources
- Hilton M, Pinder D. The Epley (canalith repositioning) manoeuvre for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2008(2): Art. No.: CD003162
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. It has also been reviewed by Deafness Research UK. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: January 2009
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) factsheet
Visit the benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) health factsheet for more information.
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