Horizontal vertigo refers to a specific type of vertigo, which is a medical condition characterized by a spinning sensation or a feeling of dizziness. In the case of horizontal vertigo, the dizziness is primarily experienced when the affected individual moves their head horizontally, such as when they turn their head from side to side. This condition is often associated with issues related to the vestibular system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation.
Horizontal vertigo can be caused by various factors, including inner ear problems, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis. BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and disrupt the normal fluid movement, leading to inaccurate signals being sent to the brain regarding one's head position. Vestibular neuritis, on the other hand, is inflammation of the vestibular nerve, usually caused by a viral infection, which affects the transmission of information from the inner ear to the brain.
Symptoms of horizontal vertigo may include a spinning sensation, loss of balance, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty concentrating. Treatment for this condition depends on the underlying cause and may include medications to alleviate symptoms, physical therapy exercises to reposition the calcium crystals in the inner ear, or balance retraining exercises to improve the functioning of the vestibular system.
In summary, horizontal vertigo is a subtype of vertigo characterized by dizziness or spinning sensations triggered by horizontal head movements. It is often linked to inner ear disorders and can cause various symptoms affecting an individual's balance and spatial orientation.
