Vertigo-associated disorders

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Vertigo-associated disorders

Vertigo is a false sensation of motion or spinning that leads to dizziness and discomfort.

Vertigo is not the same sensation as light-headedness. People with this condition feel as though they are actually spinning or moving, or that the environment itself is spinning.

There are two types of vertigo: peripheral and central.

• Peripheral vertigo occurs if there is a problem with the portion of the inner ear that controls balance (vestibular labyrinth or semicircular canals), or with the vestibular nerve (which connects the inner ear to the brainstem).
• Central vertigo occurs if there is a an abnormality in the brain, particularly in the brainstem or the cerebellum (back part of the brain).

Vertigo related to the inner ear may be caused by:

• Benign positional vertigo (recurrent attacks of vertigo, especially when the head is in certain positions)
• Drugs (aminoglycoside antibiotics)
• Meniere's disease
• Labyrinthitis (sometimes causes vertigo)
• Injury

Vertigo related to the vestibular nerve may be caused by:

• Inflammation (neuronitis)
• Nerve compression (usually a benign tumor such as a meningioma or schwannoma)

Vertigo related to the brainstem may be caused by:

• Multiple sclerosis
• Blood vessel disease
• Migraine
• Drugs (anticonvulsants, aspirin, alcohol)

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