A – Z of Illnesses & Conditions

Vertigo: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common causes of vertigo which is the sudden sensation that you are spinning or that the inside of your head is spinning. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is characterised by brief episodes of mild to intense dizziness.

Symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo are triggered by specific changes in the position of your head such as tipping your head up or down and by lying down, turning over or sitting up in bed. Other symptoms associated with vertigo may include:

•     loss of balance, which can make it difficult to stand or walk
•     nausea (feeling sick) or vomiting (being sick)
•     lightheadedness

You should see you doctor if you have recurrent or persistent signs of vertigo.