How Long Does Vertigo Last?

Vertigo can be a disorienting experience, leaving you feeling like the world is spinning or that you’re moving when you’re standing still. While it might seem like a condition itself, vertigo is actually a symptom of an underlying issue. The good news is, vertigo episodes are usually brief, lasting anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. In some severe cases, particularly with inner ear problems or migraines, vertigo can persist for hours or even days. But don’t worry, this article will explore the reasons behind vertigo and how long it typically lasts.

How Vertigo is Different From Dizziness?

Vertigo is more than just dizziness. Dizziness can make you feel lightheaded or faint. Vertigo, on the other hand, gives you the sensation that you or the world around you is spinning, swaying, or tilting. It can feel like you’re on a boat in rough seas, even when you’re perfectly still.

Common Symptoms

Besides the spinning sensation, you might also experience:

• Loss of balance: You might feel unsteady on your feet or have difficulty walking.
• Nausea and vomiting: The spinning sensation can often make you feel nauseous, and in some cases, you might even vomit.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus): You might hear a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in one or both ears.
• Nystagmus: This is a rapid, involuntary movement of the eyes.
• Sweating: You might experience sweating or feel clammy during a vertigo episode.

How Long Does Vertigo Last After Different Causes?

The duration of your vertigo episodes can vary depending on the underlying cause. Here are a few common culprits:

Inner Ear Problems

Infections in your inner ear can cause vertigo that usually subsides within a few days as the infection clears up.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

This is a very common type of vertigo caused by loose crystals in your inner ear. Episodes are usually brief, lasting only seconds, but they can happen repeatedly.

Stroke or Head Injury

Vertigo after a stroke or head injury can last for varying amounts of time, depending on the severity of the injury. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience vertigo after a stroke or head injury.

Meniere’s Disease

This condition affects the inner ear and can cause episodes of vertigo that last from minutes to hours, often accompanied by hearing loss and tinnitus.

Factors That Can Influence Duration

Several factors can influence how long your vertigo episodes last:

1, The underlying cause

As we discussed, the specific condition causing your vertigo plays a major role in determining how long it will last.

2. Severity of the condition

The more severe the underlying condition, the longer your vertigo episodes may last.

3. Individual factors

Your overall health, age, and even stress levels can influence how your body responds to vertigo.

How a Chiropractor in Melbourne Can Help

While a chiropractor can’t directly treat the medical conditions that cause vertigo (like inner ear infections or strokes), they can often help alleviate symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Here’s how Flynn Chiro – Melbourne can help you:

• Identifying Neck Issues: Sometimes, problems with your neck can contribute to or worsen vertigo symptoms. A chiropractor can carefully assess your neck and spine to identify any misalignments that might be contributing to your discomfort.
• Gentle Adjustments: If necessary, a chiropractor can perform gentle spinal adjustments to correct any misalignments and improve the function of your nervous system.
• Balance Exercises: Chiropractors can recommend specific exercises to improve your balance and coordination, which can help you feel more stable and reduce your risk of falls.
• Lifestyle Advice: A chiropractor can offer valuable advice on lifestyle modifications that can help manage vertigo symptoms. This might include stress management techniques, dietary adjustments, and proper hydration.

Important Note: If you’re experiencing frequent or severe vertigo, it’s crucial to consult with a medical doctor or an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) for proper diagnosis and treatment.

In Summary

Vertigo can be a distressing experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s usually a symptom of an underlying condition. While the duration of vertigo episodes varies depending on the cause, most cases resolve within a few minutes or hours. If you’re experiencing frequent or severe vertigo, it’s crucial to consult with a medical doctor or an ENT for proper diagnosis and treatment.

I hope this information helps you better understand vertigo and how to manage its symptoms. If you’re seeking chiropractic care in Melbourne, don’t hesitate to contact me.