Crisis vestibuli, also known as vertigo crisis or Ménière's attack, is a medical term used to describe a sudden and severe episode of vertigo associated with Ménière's disease. Ménière's disease is a chronic condition affecting the inner ear, characterized by recurring episodes of dizziness, hearing loss, a feeling of pressure or fullness in the affected ear, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
During a crisis vestibuli, the individual experiences an intense sensation of spinning or whirling, leading to an extreme sense of imbalance and disorientation. These episodes often occur spontaneously and can last from several minutes to few hours. Additionally, they may be accompanied by other distressing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, and difficulty focusing.
The term "vestibuli" refers to the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining the body's sense of balance and spatial orientation. In Ménière's disease, the crisis vestibuli occurs as a result of an abnormal increase in the fluid pressure within the inner ear, disrupting the normal functioning of the vestibular system.
Treatment for crisis vestibuli generally involves managing the symptoms and reducing the frequency and intensity of episodes. This can include medications to alleviate vertigo, diuretics to reduce fluid retention, and dietary changes to minimize triggers such as sodium intake. In severe cases, surgical interventions or other procedures may be considered to provide relief.
Overall, crisis vestibuli is a term used to describe the sudden and severe vertigo experienced during a Ménière's attack, which can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and require ongoing management and treatment.
