Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Question 1

Define:

Answer 1

Vertigo lasting seconds to minutes due to changing head position (e.g. sitting to lying down and turning the head suddenly)

Question 2

Aetiology/risk factors:

Answer 2

Displacement of the otoliths (due to degeneration, post-viral and trauma) into the semi-circular canals (canalolithasis)

This leads to vertigo for a few seconds after movement

Question 3

Symptoms:

Answer 3

Vertigo
Dizziness
Loss of balance/unsteadiness
Nausea and vomiting

Question 4

Signs:

Answer 4

none

Question 5

Investigations:

Answer 5

Hallpike manoeuvre - DIAGNOSTIC. drop the pts head off the end of the bed and look for nystagmus (will be lying flat). Must do it from both sides.

Epley manoeuvre clears the debris - therapeutic.