Clinical Manifestations of Otolithiasis

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on August 31, 2024
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Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a relatively common ENT disorder, clinically characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo associated with changes in body or head position. Typically, vertigo can be induced when the head is tilted toward a certain direction, but the duration of vertigo is brief, usually disappearing within a few seconds once the head position is stabilized. However, it tends to recur and does not accompany tinnitus, hearing loss, or headaches. Therefore, it is necessary to consult an ENT or neurology department, allowing experienced doctors to make a targeted assessment.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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What should be paid attention to with otolithiasis?

Clinically, ear stone syndrome is referred to as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Concerning this condition, the following points should be noted: Firstly, active treatment is essential, primarily involving manual or mechanical repositioning, as well as functional exercises after repositioning; this is mandatory. Secondly, safety precautions must be taken. Patients with ear stone syndrome should not be near the edges of high buildings or ponds to prevent unforeseen accidents that could be triggered by sudden bouts of vertigo. Thirdly, dietary habits are important. The diet should be light, and stimulating substances such as tobacco, alcohol, spicy foods, and coffee should be avoided. Lastly, it is important to avoid excessive exercise, particularly activities involving too much spinning.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should I do if I have vomiting due to vestibular neuritis?

Otolithiasis is a relatively common otolaryngological disease. Clinically, symptoms such as nausea and vomiting may occur. When vomiting occurs, it is essential to ensure rest, avoid external stimuli, and refrain from vigorous exercise. Many patients find their symptoms gradually alleviating after rest. Additionally, a positional test can be conducted to determine the specific location of the lesion in the semicircular canals, followed by targeted manual repositioning treatment. If the condition is severe, with prominent symptoms of dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, oral anti-vertigo medications may be considered to help control the condition and alleviate symptoms. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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The difference between otolithiasis and Ménière's disease

The main difference between BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) and Meniere's Disease lies in their symptoms and causes. BPPV primarily manifests as episodes of dizziness due to dislodged otoconia moving into the semicircular canals, leading to vestibular irritation. On the other hand, Meniere's Disease presents a group of symptoms including vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, and tinnitus, thought to be caused by fluid accumulation in the labyrinth, triggering labyrinthine irritation.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can otolithiasis be treated with surgery?

Ear stone disease is referred to as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a common otolaryngological condition of the inner ear, primarily presenting as vertigo. The treatment mainly involves manual or mechanical repositioning of the otoliths. After repositioning, self-functional exercises are conducted along with pharmacological treatments to alleviate or mitigate residual symptoms. For cases of ear stone disease with severe symptoms or complex conditions where manual repositioning is insufficient, or if the BPPV is a secondary condition accompanying other inner ear diseases, surgical interventions may be considered, such as inner ear drug injections or semicircular canal occlusion. These surgical methods are considered last-resort options, not first-line treatments.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Is otolithiasis serious?

Otolithiasis, also known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), is generally not very serious. Most patients can control and alleviate the condition through timely manual repositioning treatments, but the condition may recur. A small number of patients have severe conditions where manual repositioning treatments are not effective. For these cases, machine chair repositioning combined with drug treatment can be considered, and most patients can recover. Only a small number of patients with severe conditions, where repositioning treatments are ineffective and recurring episodes significantly impact daily life, might consider undergoing surgical treatment. Currently, the commonly used technique is semicircular canal occlusion, which generally has good therapeutic effects.