vrtoglavicu

Vrtoglavicu, known in English as vertigo, is a medical symptom characterized by a false sense of rotation or movement. People may feel as if themselves or the surroundings are spinning, which is often accompanied by imbalance, nausea, vomiting, or a sense of unsteadiness. Vertigo is not a disease by itself but a symptom that can arise from various conditions affecting the vestibular system, the brain, or both.

Common causes are categorized as peripheral or central. Peripheral vertigo originates in the inner ear and is often caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, or Ménière’s disease. Central vertigo involves the brain and can be related to migraines, vertebrobasilar insufficiency, certain brainstem or cerebellar disorders, or less commonly tumors. Other factors include aging, dehydration, low blood sugar, anemia, medications with vestibular or neurotoxic effects, and orthostatic hypotension.

Diagnosis relies on history and a targeted examination. The Dix-Hallpike test helps diagnose BPPV. Audiometry, balance testing, and imaging such as MRI may be used if red flags or central causes are suspected. Treatment depends on the underlying cause: canalith repositioning maneuvers (such as the Epley or Semont procedures) for BPPV; vestibular rehabilitation therapy for chronic or recurrent vertigo; and medications to alleviate nausea or acute symptoms. Addressing dehydration, comorbid conditions, or medication-related factors is also important.

Prognosis varies; many episodes improve with simple maneuvers or resolve over time, while recurrent vertigo may require ongoing management. Red flags—sudden unilateral hearing loss, severe imbalance after head trauma, weakness, slurred speech, or new neurological symptoms—warrant urgent medical evaluation.