What is the first treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

BPPV happens when tiny inner-ear particles move into a canal involved in balance. Turning in bed, looking up, or bending may trigger brief spinning. The Epley manoeuvre uses a planned sequence of head and body positions to guide those particles away from the sensitive canal. A clinician may first ask about triggers and observe eye movements during positional testing. This helps distinguish BPPV from other causes of dizziness.

Arrange a GP Consultation if the diagnosis has not been checked, particularly when dizziness is new or recurring. If BPPV fits, a trained clinician can perform the Epley manoeuvre and explain whether a home version is suitable. Move slowly after treatment, sit down if spinning returns, and avoid driving or climbing until you can turn your head safely without dizziness. Medicines may ease nausea but do not remove the misplaced particles.

Seek urgent medical help for dizziness with weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, fainting, severe headache, chest pain, new hearing loss, or difficulty walking. These features need assessment because they are not typical of simple BPPV. Seek prompt review if vomiting prevents fluids, symptoms follow a head injury, or spinning lasts continuously rather than in short position-triggered episodes.

Ask whether your symptoms match BPPV, which ear and canal appear involved, whether the Epley manoeuvre is appropriate for your neck and back, and what warning signs should change the plan. You can also ask when it is safe to drive and what to do if the spinning returns.