Left BPPV and the Epley Manoeuvre

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV, happens when tiny calcium particles move into a part of the inner ear that senses rotation. Turning in bed, looking up, bending, or sitting up can then trigger brief spinning sensations. Left-sided BPPV describes the side identified during positional testing; it is not diagnosed from the direction a person happens to feel dizzy. Nausea and unsteadiness can accompany an episode, but persistent neurological symptoms suggest another problem.

The Epley manoeuvre uses a sequence of positions to guide the particles away from the sensitive canal. The correct starting side matters, and symptoms can briefly intensify while the positions are performed.

Have a GP or trained vestibular clinician confirm BPPV before attempting a manoeuvre, especially if you have neck or back problems, limited movement, vascular disease, or recent injury. During treatment, move slowly and have another person nearby if you feel unsteady. A clinician can demonstrate the left-sided sequence and explain whether it should be repeated. Avoid climbing, driving, or operating machinery while spinning or balance symptoms continue. Keep a note of which movements trigger symptoms and whether hearing changes occur.

Call emergency services for sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, new severe headache, fainting, chest pain, or inability to walk safely. Seek prompt assessment for continuous vertigo, new hearing loss, severe vomiting, fever, head injury, or symptoms that do not fit brief position-triggered episodes. Arrange review if the manoeuvre does not help, symptoms return often, or imbalance persists.

Ask: Is BPPV confirmed, and which ear or canal is involved? Is the Epley manoeuvre suitable with my neck and back history? Can you demonstrate the correct sequence? What should I do if spinning continues? Which symptoms would suggest a different cause of vertigo?