What should I do if otolithiasis frequently occurs?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on January 16, 2025
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Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a relatively common otolaryngologic condition, with some patients experiencing recurrent episodes. After recurrent episodes occur, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngology department for a positional test. This test clarifies the specific location of the affected semicircular canal, and after confirmation, targeted manual repositioning treatments can be conducted. During the treatment process, regular follow-ups are required. At the same time, it is important to protect the head from severe external impacts, avoid vigorous activities in the short term, and ensure adequate rest. Many patients gradually improve and the probability of episodes progressively decreases following these adjustments and treatments.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What are the symptoms of otolithiasis?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), also known as otolithiasis, is most commonly characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo. Typically, these episodes of vertigo are short-lived, lasting just a few seconds, and are closely related to changes in body or head position. Vertigo can be triggered by changes in head position and quickly disappears once the head is stabilized. Furthermore, there are no accompanying symptoms of tinnitus, headache, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. Diagnosis can be confirmed through clinical symptoms and positional testing. After diagnosis, manual repositioning treatments can be considered, and most patients respond well to this treatment.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Does otolithiasis cause headaches?

Ear stone disease, also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, has two types: primary ear stone disease and secondary ear stone disease. Clinically, ear stone disease mainly manifests as vertigo, as well as symptoms of the vestibular system or autonomic nervous system caused by vertigo, such as nausea and vomiting. Patients with ear stone disease rarely or almost never experience headaches. If headache symptoms are present, they are often accompanied by other diseases, such as hypertension, intracranial lesions, etc. These conditions can also cause ear stone disease, which are referred to as secondary ear stone disease as mentioned above. Therefore, if a patient with ear stone disease develops headache symptoms, active examination should be undertaken to avoid missing other lesions.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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What should be noted about vertigo due to ear stones?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common and frequently occurring disorder in the field of otolaryngology, primarily causing symptoms such as dizziness, a spinning sensation, nausea, and vomiting. When these symptoms of dizziness occur, it is important to timely find a sofa or bed to lie down or sit on to prevent falls and potential injuries. The episodes of BPPV usually last a short duration, often resolving within one to two minutes on their own. If the episodes are prolonged and recurrent, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Initial diagnostic evaluations such as MRI of the head and high-resolution CT of the temporal bone should be conducted to rule out inner ear disorders and intracranial tumors as possible causes of the vertigo. Once diagnosed, a specialist can perform repositioning maneuvers to treat BPPV, helping the patient return to normal.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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symptoms of post-vestibular neuritis

The symptoms of the sequelae of vestibular lithiasis are quite varied, with common symptoms including dizziness, a sensation of heaviness in the head and lightness in the feet, and a floating feeling when walking. Some patients may also experience nausea and vomiting, with substantial individual variation in symptoms. Generally, recovery can gradually occur about one to two weeks after the onset of the condition. For patients with more pronounced symptoms, oral medication treatment may need to be considered, requiring regular follow-up during the treatment process to monitor the effects. Overall, with timely medical treatment, the condition should gradually improve, although fluctuations may occur. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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For vertigo, register at the Department of ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat).

Otolithiasis, also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, is primarily caused by abnormalities in the vestibular semicircular canals. It is a common condition with a relatively high incidence in clinical settings. It is generally recommended to consult either an otolaryngology or neurology department, as both are equipped to handle this condition. There are several treatment methods available, with manual repositioning treatment being the preferred first choice. Most patients can recover after undergoing manual repositioning treatment. For a small portion of patients who do not respond well to manual repositioning, machine repositioning chairs can be considered, in conjunction with pharmacological treatment. However, for a very small group of patients who do not respond to conservative treatment, surgical treatment may need to be considered.