What you’re describing is most often Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). It happens when tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) get dislodged and move into the wrong part of your inner ear, confusing your balance system.
The most effective way to “get rid” of the crystals
You don’t dissolve them—you reposition them back where they belong using specific head movements.
1. Epley maneuver
This is the most common and effective method.
Basic idea (for right-ear vertigo):
- Sit upright, turn your head 45° to the affected side
- Quickly lie back with your head slightly hanging
- Hold ~30 seconds
- Turn head 90° to the other side
- Roll onto your side, nose toward the floor
- Sit back up slowly
✔ Often gives relief in 1–3 sessions
✔ Can be done at home—but better to learn it once from a doctor or physiotherapist
2. Semont maneuver
A faster, more abrupt repositioning technique—sometimes used if Epley doesn’t work.
Things that help reduce vertigo symptoms
- Move slowly when changing positions (especially getting out of bed)
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated
- Avoid sudden head tilts or looking straight up/down early on
- Stay hydrated
- Limit alcohol and excessive caffeine
Medications (for symptom relief, not a cure)
Doctors may prescribe:
- Meclizine
- Betahistine
These can reduce dizziness but won’t fix the crystals.
When to see a doctor
- If vertigo lasts more than a few weeks
- If you have hearing loss, ringing, or severe headaches
- If symptoms are constant (not triggered by movement)
They might confirm BPPV and perform the maneuver correctly, or rule out other causes like Ménière’s disease.
Important note
If you’re not sure which ear is affected, doing maneuvers incorrectly can make things worse—so getting a proper diagnosis first is a smart move.
If you want, tell me your symptoms (like when the spinning happens and how long it lasts), and I can help you figure out if it really sounds like BPPV and guide you more precisely.
