BPPV in medical terms: a plain-language explanation

Benign means the condition is not a tumour; paroxysmal means episodes begin suddenly; positional means head position triggers them; and vertigo describes a spinning or moving sensation. Small calcium particles can move into a balance canal where they send an inaccurate movement signal when you turn, lie down, or look up. Nausea and brief unsteadiness can accompany the spinning.

A clinician asks about the timing and triggers, checks eye movements and balance, and may perform a position test. If the pattern fits BPPV, a repositioning manoeuvre can guide the particles out of the affected canal. Move carefully after an episode, use support on stairs, and avoid activities that could lead to a fall until your balance feels reliable.

Seek urgent care for vertigo with new weakness, facial drooping, speech trouble, severe headache, fainting, chest pain, or inability to walk safely. Arrange a GP consultation when symptoms are new, persistent, recurrent, or different from previous episodes. These patterns may require a broader assessment than positional testing.

Ask which ear and canal seem involved, whether a repositioning manoeuvre is suitable, and what movements to avoid temporarily. Ask how to recognise a recurrence and when balance exercises might help.