Evaluation and treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Janet Odry Helminski*, Timothy C Hain

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is characterized by brief periods of vertigo triggered by a change in the position of the patient's head relative to gravity. The diagnosis of BPPV is based on the patient's history and eye movements (nystagmus) evoked during two positional tests: the Dix-Hallpike maneuver and the supine with lateral head turnsmaneuver. The direction and characteristics of the nystagmus found during the positional testing enable the clinician to determine the canal involved. Once the involved canal is identified, BPPV may be effectively treated with a physical maneuver. The maneuvers may be performed by a clinician or by patients themselves.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)33-39
Number of pages7
JournalAnnals of Long-Term Care
Volume15
Issue number6
StatePublished - Jun 1 2007

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gerontology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Evaluation and treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this