"What Should I Do If Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) Keeps Recurring?"
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, also known as BPPV, refers to brief episodes of rotational vertigo or dizziness occurring when the head moves to a specific position, accompanied by nystagmus, nausea, vomiting, and other autonomic symptoms. Its pathogenesis involves the detachment of calcium carbonate crystals from the semicircular canals of the inner ear into the utricle, leading to obstruction of lymph flow.
Treatment Options:
1. General Management:
Patients should avoid vigorous activities and sudden neck rotations in daily life. Avoid drinking coffee or strong tea before bedtime to prevent disruptions in sleep quality.
2. Medication:
During acute episodes, antihistamines such as Promethazine Hydrochloride Tablets and Diphenhydramine Tablets can be prescribed for antiemetic treatment. If accompanied by significant anxiety, patients can take Estazolam Tablets with doctor's guidance to alleviate discomfort. Additionally, muscle relaxants like Baclofen Tablets and Eperisone Hydrochloride Tablets can be used to improve muscle tension.
3. Surgical Treatment:
For severe and recurrent cases, posterior semicircular canal occlusion surgery may be considered. This method involves severing the connection between the posterior semicircular canal and the petrous bone to achieve a curative effect. However, it may cause some hearing impairment, so this treatment option should be carefully chosen. Canalith repositioning maneuvers can also be employed to restore balance function and stabilize eye movement, balancing the pressure inside and outside the ear to alleviate vertigo symptoms.
Advice:
Maintain adequate rest and sleep. Engage in regular physical exercise to enhance physical fitness and immunity. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to replenish Vitamin C, promoting metabolism and accelerating recovery.