Dix-Hallpike Test for Vertigo
The first vertigo test doctors typically run is known as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. While this maneuver might sound complicated, it's actually quite simple. The Dix-Hallpike is used to test for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the most common cause of vertigo.
An otolaryngologist performs a physical exam to look for signs and symptoms of the cause of vertigo. He or she uses delicate instruments to magnify and examine the ear canal and eardrum. Your doctor may also examine your eye movements or ask you to track an object from one point in space to another.
He has discovered that two recently identified inner ear proteins can be found in small quantities in the blood. Their levels correlate with inner ear disorders. There is potential for these biomarkers to help with early detection and diagnosis of hearing loss or vertigo.
If you have been experiencing vertigo for more than a day or two, it's so severe that you can't stand or walk, or you are vomiting frequently and can't keep food down, you should make an appointment with a neurologist.
Vertigo is often caused by an inner ear problem. Some of the most common causes include: BPPV. These initials stand for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
Caused by a problem in the brain, central vertigo can be linked to serious conditions such as stroke, brain tumor and multiple sclerosis. Symptoms develop gradually and are typically mild but constant and may include gait instability and loss of coordination.
A common misperception is that “vertigo” is equivalent to any type of dizziness, when in fact it is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a sense of spinning or movement of the world around you when there is no actual movement.
Regardless of suspicion for peripheral or central etiology, for episodic or persistent vertigo, if imaging is indicated the best test is MRI Brain and internal auditory canal with and without IV contrast.
Sit or lie down immediately when you feel dizzy. Lie still with your eyes closed in a darkened room if you're experiencing a severe episode of vertigo. Avoid driving a car or operating heavy machinery if you experience frequent dizziness without warning. Avoid using caffeine, alcohol, salt and tobacco.
Symptoms that favor a peripheral etiology of vertigo include auditory neurologic symptoms such as hearing loss and tinnitus, whereas findings such as non-fatigable nystagmus favor more central etiologies. Regardless of the etiology, MRI is typically the best modality when imaging is indicated.
Generally, see your doctor if you experience any recurrent, sudden, severe, or prolonged and unexplained dizziness or vertigo.
The Dix-Hallpike maneuver is a test that healthcare providers use to diagnose benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a common inner ear disorder that causes a sudden spinning sensation when you move your head into certain positions.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of central and peripheral vestibular disorders can be very hard to distinguish between. Sophisticated testing is often required to determine whether symptoms of dizziness or imbalance are being caused by damage to the peripheral or the central nervous system.
Vertigo causes dizziness and makes you feel like you're spinning when you're not. It most commonly occurs when there's an issue with your inner ear. But you can also develop it if you have a condition affecting your brain, like a tumor or stroke.
If you experience dizzy spells or the sensation of feeling off-balance, you may have vertigo without knowing. However, if the world around you is spinning while you're sitting still, it could point to a more serious condition.
Central Vertigo – This is Serious!
The first and foremost danger of leaving your dizziness untreated is that you could be experiencing dysfunction in your central nervous system. In other words, something could be wrong with your heart or brain – specifically your brainstem and/or cerebellum.
Vertigo could also affect your ability to drive. You should avoid driving if you've recently had episodes of vertigo and there's a chance you may have another episode while you're driving.
It can also cause unpleasant side effects such as unsteadiness, dizziness and vertigo. You can experience these effects if you're feeling stressed, anxious or depressed. These emotions can trigger the symptoms of an underlying issue such as an inner ear condition, but they can also cause vertigo by themselves.
Many people describe vertigo as feeling like the room is spinning. It might cause you to feel like you're tilted, rocking, unbalanced, or unsteady. Sometimes these unpleasant sensations are worse if you're standing up, walking, or moving your head around.