Health Library

Vertigo of peripheral origin is caused by problems of the inner ear. It is the most common type of vertigo. Causes may include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
• Meniere's disease
• Perilymphatic fistula—an abnormal canal or connection in the inner ear
• Ototoxic medications—some medications can disrupt the inner ear's ability to balance
• Infection
• Acoustic neuroma—benign tumor of the inner ear
• Reduced blood flow
• Injury
• Otosclerosis—a bony growth near the middle ear

Vertigo of central origin is not as common as vertigo of peripheral origin, but it is more serious. This type of vertigo is affects the brainstem or the cerebellum, the region of the brain that controls balance. Causes may include:

• Brain lesion or tumors
• Stroke
• Migraine headaches
• Nervous system disorders such as Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis
• Epilepsy
• Excessive exposure to alcohol, heavy industrial metals, or poisons
• Injury

• Antihistimines
• Benzodiazepines
• Anticholinergics
• Anti-nausea medicines

Living with vertigo can be challenging, but not impossible. Try these tips:

If you are in a crowded, open space or out in public:

• Use a cane to help with balance and mobility
• Sit at one end of the sports field or theater to avoid moving your head back and forth
• Bring a stool or chair so you can sit down when you need to
• Schedule what your day around peak times when places are crowded

Other tips:

• Don't read or work on a computer if you are moving
• Don't fly if you have sinus or ear problems due to an infection
• Avoid loud background music and harsh lighting
• Try to eat smaller meals throughout the day
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine

You and your doctor will plan lifestyle changes. These may that may help include:

If you are out in public:

• Use a cane to help with balance and mobility
• Sit at one end of the sports field or theater to avoid moving your head back and forth
• Bring a stool or chair so you can sit down when you need to

Other tips:

• Don't read or work on a computer if you are moving
• Avoid loud background music and harsh lighting