Director Neurology
Vertigo is the sensation that oneself or the surroundings are spinning or moving when they are not. It is caused by dysfunction of the vestibular system — either peripheral (inner ear or vestibular nerve) or central (brainstem or cerebellum). The commonest cause is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is instantly treatable with the Epley canalith repositioning manoeuvre. However, vertigo with neurological signs (imbalance, diplopia, dysarthria, facial numbness, hearing loss) may indicate a posterior fossa stroke or tumour. At Medanta Hospital, Sector-50, Noida, Neurology Team of Team Sushrut differentiates peripheral from central vertigo and manages each accordingly.
Symptoms
Treatments
Dr. Namita Kaul
Director – Neurology
M.D. DNB
Dr. Kapil Singhal
Director – Neurology
M.D. D.M
Is BPPV dangerous?
No. BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) is the most common cause of vertigo and is entirely benign — it does not harm the brain and resolves with the Epley repositioning manoeuvre. However, the sudden episodes of vertigo can cause falls, particularly in elderly patients. Dr. Singhal at Team Sushrut performs the Epley manoeuvre in clinic and teaches the home version for recurrent episodes.
How is BPPV treated in Noida?
Dr. Namita Kaul, Dr. Kapil Singhal, Dr. Prerna Dogra and Dr. Payas Joshi at Team Sushrut, Medanta Hospital, Sector 50, Noida performs the Epley canalith repositioning manoeuvre for BPPV. This involves a series of precise head position changes that move displaced calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) from the semicircular canals back into the utricle, resolving vertigo. Relief is often immediate.
When does vertigo need a brain MRI?
MRI brain (posterior fossa protocol) is indicated when: vertigo is accompanied by neurological signs (weakness, facial numbness, diplopia, slurred speech, imbalance out of proportion to dizziness), onset is sudden in a stroke-risk patient, hearing loss is one-sided and sudden, or BPPV manoeuvre fails and symptoms persist. MRI excludes cerebellar or brainstem stroke, acoustic neuroma, and multiple sclerosis.
Is Meniere's disease treatable?
Yes. Meniere's disease can be effectively managed in most patients with salt restriction (<1500 mg sodium/day), betahistine, and diuretics — reducing the frequency and severity of attacks. For refractory cases, intratympanic gentamicin injection or endolymphatic sac surgery can provide further relief. Dr. Singhal at Team Sushrut manages Meniere's disease at Medanta Noida.
