Rocks In Your Head

Rocks In Your Head?

Have you ever heard the idiom, you’ve got rocks in your head.

Taken figuratively, it is a matter of opinion; however, the literal interpretation is remarkably true.

Did you know that your inner ear contains tiny calcium carbonate crystals (i.e. limestone) to help make you aware of movement in space.

These tiny rocks are responsible for the sensation of moving forward in a car, or going up in an elevator. It is also these crystals that cause you to feel dizzy when they find their way into places in the ear they shouldn’t be.

This type of dizziness is called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). If you have ever rolled over in bed and had brief vertigo, or reached for something on a top shelf and felt as if you were spinning, you may have been experiencing the effects of BPPV. BPPV is the cause of about 20% of dizziness in the general population, and causes 50% of dizziness in the older population. BPPV is believed to be caused by head injuries, infections, other disorders of the ear, or simply aging.

This type of dizziness is easily treated in office, most of the time with just one appointment. Through a few simple maneuvers, the loose crystals are moved back where they should be, resulting in, most often, the immediate relief of dizziness.

If you think you or someone you know may be experiencing this type of dizziness, call to schedule a consultation.

480-648-2042