Vertigo

Gambaran keseluruhan

Vertigo is a sensation that you or the world around you is spinning or moving, even when you are still. It is different from lightheadedness or feeling faint. Vertigo is not a disease itself but a symptom of an underlying problem, often in the inner ear.

Yes, vertigo is very common. About 40% of adults experience it at some point in their lives.

Vertigo can affect people of any age, but it is more common in older adults and those with inner ear conditions, migraines, or after a head injury.

Gejala

Gejala biasa

• A spinning or turning sensation
• Loss of balance or feeling unsteady
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid, uncontrolled eye movements (nystagmus)
• Sweating
• Headache or mild earache

Gejala pada kanak-kanak

• May not be able to describe the feeling; instead, they might seem unsteady, cry, or hold their head still
• Vomiting without other signs of illness
• Refusing to move or walk
• Clutching furniture or walls for balance

Gejala pada orang dewasa yang lebih tua

• Higher risk of falls and fractures
• May feel faint or lightheaded in addition to spinning
• Difficulty getting up from a chair or bed
• More likely to have underlying conditions like BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) or heart issues

Punca

Punca utama

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) – tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged
• Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis – inflammation of the inner ear, often after a viral infection
• Ménière’s disease – a condition with fluid buildup in the inner ear causing vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing
• Migraine – some migraines cause vertigo even without a headache
• Head injury or neck problems
• Rarely, reduced blood flow to the brain or brainstem issues

Faktor risiko

• Age over 50
• Recent viral illness or ear infection
• Head injury or whiplash
• Certain medications (such as some antibiotics or diuretics) – ask your doctor about any risks
• Dehydration or stress

Bila perlu berjumpa doktor

Jumpa doktor dengan segera jika:

• If you have vertigo with any of the emergency symptoms listed above, call your local emergency number immediately
• If vertigo started after a head injury
• If you have hearing loss or severe headache with vertigo

Buat temujanji rutin jika:

• If you have mild vertigo that keeps coming back or lasts more than a day
• If vertigo affects your daily activities or makes you worried
• If you have not been diagnosed and want to know the cause

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, any triggers, and your medical history. They may perform simple tests to check your balance and eye movements, such as the Dix-Hallpike test.

Ujian yang mungkin dilakukan

• Dix-Hallpike test – you lie down quickly with your head turned to one side; the doctor watches your eyes for nystagmus
• Hearing test (audiometry) to check for inner ear damage
• MRI or CT scan if a brain cause is suspected
• Videonystagmography (VNG) – you wear goggles that track your eye movements during various head positions
• Electronystagmography (ENG) – similar to VNG but uses electrodes around the eyes

Apa yang diharapkan semasa temujanji anda

The tests may briefly make your vertigo feel worse, but that helps the doctor pinpoint the cause. You will be supported throughout, and the dizziness usually settles quickly. The results help guide your treatment.

Rawatan

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For BPPV, a simple series of head movements (repositioning maneuvers) can often stop the vertigo. For other causes, medication, exercises, or lifestyle changes may help. Your doctor will create a plan that is right for you.

Penjagaan diri di rumah

• Avoid sudden head or body movements that bring on vertigo
• Sit or lie down as soon as you feel dizzy to prevent falls
• Use a walking stick or handrail if needed
• Get up slowly from lying or sitting to allow your balance to adjust
• Reduce bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells if they make symptoms worse

Rawatan perubatan

Doctors may recommend medications to reduce nausea and dizziness, such as antihistamines or anticholinergics (these are general classes, not brand names). For inflammation, a short course of steroids may be used. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized exercise program that trains your brain to compensate for inner ear problems. For Ménière’s disease, a low-salt diet and diuretics may help reduce fluid buildup.

Bila pembedahan dipertimbangkan?

Rarely, surgery may be considered if vertigo is severe and does not respond to other treatments, such as for Ménière’s disease or if there is an anatomical problem. Examples include a shunt to drain fluid or cutting the nerve that sends balance signals to the brain.

Hidup dengan keadaan ini

Plan your day with rest breaks. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or climbing ladders until you are sure the vertigo is under control. Keep essentials within easy reach at home. Let family and friends know so they can support you.

Tip gaya hidup

• Get plenty of rest, especially after a vertigo episode
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, as they can trigger symptoms
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Keep a calm, quiet environment during attacks

Diet dan senaman

A balanced diet helps overall health. If you have Ménière’s disease, your doctor may recommend reducing salt intake. Gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or tai chi can improve balance and confidence. Start slowly and stop if symptoms worsen.

Kesihatan mental dan kesejahteraan emosi

Living with vertigo can be stressful and cause anxiety or fear of falling. It may also affect your mood and social life. It is important to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional if you feel overwhelmed. You are not alone.

Pencegahan

Not all types of vertigo can be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by staying hydrated, managing stress, and protecting your head from injury. Treating ear infections promptly may also help.

Program saringan

There is no routine screening for vertigo, but regular check-ups can help detect conditions that might lead to vertigo, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Komplikasi

Jika tidak dirawat

• Falls and injuries, especially in older adults
• Chronic balance problems that affect daily life
• Anxiety, depression, or fear of leaving the house
• Rarely, missed diagnosis of a serious condition like stroke or a brain tumor

Pandangan jangka panjang

Most people with vertigo recover fully, especially when the cause is BPPV or a viral infection. With the right treatment, even long-term conditions like Ménière’s disease can be managed well. Many people return to all their normal activities. Stay in touch with your healthcare team for the best outcome.

Cari sokongan

Organisasi antarabangsa

• Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) ↗
• American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery ↗

Organisasi tempatan

• NHS website – Vertigo ↗ · UK
• British Tinnitus Association (provides support for vertigo and balance issues) ↗ · UK

Talian bantuan

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