Epley Manoeuvre
The Epley Manoeuvre is used to treat a certain cause of vertigo called BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)BPPV is a mechanical problem of the inner ear. It can occur in people of all ages but is more common over the age of 40. Some younger people can develop BPPV following an injury to the ear, or following a previous infection of the inner ear.
- Benign- means it is not life threatening, although the symptoms can feel extremely unpleasant
- Paroxysmal- it comes in sudden, brief spells
- Positional – it is triggered when the head is moved in a certain direction, often quickly
- Vertigo – feels like you (or everything around you) is spinning – enough to affect your balance. It’s more than just feeling dizzy. This type of vertigo typically lasts from a few seconds to no more than a minute
It is important to know that BPPV will NOT give you constant dizziness that is unaffected by movement or a change in position.
It will NOT affect your hearing or produce fainting, headache or neurological symptoms such as numbness, “pins and needles,” trouble speaking or trouble coordinating your movements.
If you have any of these additional symptoms, tell your doctor immediately.