Initial symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo - there are other symptoms besides dizziness

Initial symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo - there are other symptoms besides dizziness

When it comes to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), dizziness is what usually comes to mind. You may suddenly feel like your head is spinning, and it can become difficult to maintain your body's balance. However, from my own experience, I found that in addition to dizziness, a variety of unexpected early symptoms of BPPV can also appear in the initial stages.

First, there was an unusual eye movement. At first, I didn't notice it well, but every time I experienced dizziness, I felt my eyes tremble or move rapidly. This is a phenomenon called 'nystagmus,' where the eyes move quickly without the person realizing it, and it can occur when otoliths stimulate the semicircular canals. I was initially worried, thinking it might be early symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), but once I learned it was related to otoliths, I felt a bit relieved.

Secondly, there is tinnitus. It was a phenomenon where a sudden ringing sound occurs in the ear or sounds like hearing underwater. It is said to be an early symptom of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), caused by calcium carbonate crystals stimulating the nerves inside the ear. Because of this sound, I had difficulty concentrating and sometimes found it hard to fall asleep at night. Tinnitus can also be related to other ear conditions, so caution is needed to avoid confusing it with BPPV. However, if I had known that tinnitus could occur alongside BPPV, I think I could have responded earlier.

Thirdly, there is a change in sense of balance. Besides dizziness, I also felt that walking was strangely uncomfortable. Even on paths I normally walked without any problems, I suddenly felt like I was leaning to one side and that my steps were not well coordinated. I was told that this phenomenon occurs because benign paroxysmal positional vertigo affects the part of the ear responsible for balance. That's why I also felt anxious when going out.

The early symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) are things I have personally experienced and learned about. If these small signals appear before dizziness worsens, do not just think of them as simple fatigue or stress; it may be important to suspect BPPV. Especially if dizziness recurs or these symptoms are accompanied, it is advisable to see a doctor without delay for an accurate diagnosis.