Understanding and Treating BPPV

Have you ever stood up too quickly and felt the room spin? Or maybe you’ve rolled over in bed and suddenly everything felt like it was turning upside down? These are classic signs of a condition called BPPV, which is short for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. While it may sound like a mouthful, BPPV is actually the most common cause of dizziness and can affect people of all ages, especially older adults.

At Hearing & Balance Specialists of Kansas City, our compassionate team understands just how disorienting and frightening these dizzy spells can be. We’re here to help you make sense of BPPV, explain why it happens, and, most importantly, show you how our vestibular therapy can help you feel steady and safe again.

What Causes BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)?

BPPV happens when tiny crystals in your inner ear, called otoconia, become dislodged and move into areas where they don’t belong. These crystals are part of your balance system and usually help you sense gravity. When they end up in the wrong place, your brain receives confusing signals, which leads to a sudden feeling of spinning or dizziness, especially when you change head positions.

People with BPPV might notice dizziness when they roll over in bed, tilt their head, bend down, or stand up too fast. The spinning feeling, called vertigo, usually only lasts for a few seconds to a minute, but it can be extremely unsettling. In addition to vertigo, BPPV can also cause nausea, a sense of imbalance, or a feeling like you’re floating.

How Common Is BPPV?

Believe it or not, up to 50% of people will experience BPPV at some point in their lives. It can happen to anyone, but is especially common in people over the age of 60. Although BPPV can seem scary, the good news is that it’s one of the most treatable inner ear conditions. Many patients see a big improvement, or even complete relief, after just a few simple treatments.

Diagnosing BPPV: What to Expect

If you come to our office with symptoms of dizziness or vertigo, our team will start by asking you some questions about when your symptoms started, what triggers them, and how long they last. We’ll then perform a series of balance and movement tests to determine if BPPV is the cause. One of the most common diagnostic tools is the Dix-Hallpike test, where we gently guide your head into certain positions to see if we can trigger the vertigo in a controlled way.

Don’t worry. This process is safe and helps us pinpoint exactly what’s going on so we can create a vestibular therapy plan that treats your symptoms effectively.

How Is BPPV Treated? Effective Vestibular Therapy Options

The great news is that BPPV often improves quickly with the right vestibular therapy. At Hearing & Balance Specialists of Kansas City, our skilled team uses gentle, targeted techniques to help reset your inner ear’s balance system and reduce dizziness.

Each treatment plan is personalized to your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. Many patients notice a big improvement after just one or two sessions, and we can also provide simple exercises to help prevent dizziness from returning.

By choosing our team for your vestibular therapy, you’re getting more than just a single treatment. You’re getting a complete, personalized plan to restore your balance and help you feel steady and confident again.

What Happens If BPPV Goes Untreated?

While BPPV isn’t dangerous on its own, it can increase your risk of falls, especially for older adults. The dizziness can interfere with your daily activities, make you feel anxious, and affect your overall quality of life. That’s why it’s so important to get the right diagnosis and vestibular therapy from professionals who understand balance disorders.

At Hearing & Balance Specialists of Kansas City, we focus on helping people like you regain confidence and stability in their daily lives.

Managing BPPV Symptoms at Home

Even though BPPV can seem like it appears out of nowhere, there are some things you can do to manage the symptoms. Try to move slowly when changing positions, especially when getting in or out of bed. Sleeping slightly elevated or avoiding sudden head turns can also help minimize dizzy spells.

But remember, you don’t have to figure this out on your own. Our experts have extensive experience using vestibular therapy to help patients overcome BPPV and get back to the things they love.

Why Choose Hearing & Balance Specialists of Kansas City?

Our team is your partner for better hearing and balance. Our knowledgeable and friendly team works closely with each patient to create personalized care plans that work. Whether you’ve had BPPV for a few days or a few months, we’re committed to helping you find relief and avoid recurrence.

With state-of-the-art equipment and years of specialized training, we are proud to serve the communities of Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and Kansas City. Our offices are conveniently located and easy to access, so that getting care is never a hassle.

You Don’t Have to Live with Dizziness

BPPV can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming, but help is available, and often just a phone call away. Our team at Hearing & Balance Specialists of Kansas City has successfully treated hundreds of cases of BPPV and continues to stay on the cutting edge of vestibular care. We understand how disruptive this condition can be, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Let us show you how a simple, non-invasive approach can bring your world back into balance.

Contact Us Today

If you’re ready to stop the spinning and take back control of your life, don’t wait. Our caring specialists at Hearing & Balance Specialists of Kansas City are standing by and ready to help. Whether you live in Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, or Kansas City, there’s a friendly and experienced team nearby to assist you. 

If you’re in Missouri or Kansas and dealing with BPPV, you don’t have to look far for help. Our Lee’s Summit, MO office can be reached at (816) 507-8885. If you’re closer to Overland Park, KS, call us at (913) 521-9090. And for those in North Kansas City, MO, our location can be reached at (816) 800-8020. Our team at all three locations is ready to assist you with compassionate, expert care.

Please don’t suffer in silence. Get started with an appointment today.