Understanding Causes of Vertigo in Northern California

If you have the feeling of moving, falling, tilting, or spinning while you are stationary, you could be experiencing a condition called vertigo. Having these sensations can make it hard to stand or walk. Vertigo is mainly caused by problems in the ear. It’s very different from dizziness. 

While most instances of vertigo are no cause for alarm, you should seek help from a trained medical professional if you or a loved one experience vertigo in Northern California. If you need to go to an emergency room (ER), use InQuicker to select your estimated arrival time while you wait at home. Dignity Health North State offers emergency services at the following locations:

In the event of severe or life-threatening symptoms or injury, call 911 right away.

 

Vertigo Symptoms

The primary symptoms of vertigo can include:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Feeling unsteady or having problems with balance
  • Hearing loss that may come and go
  • Fullness or pain in your ears
  • Ringing in your ears (tinnitus)

If you have one or more of these symptoms, see a Dignity Health North State provider for a diagnosis. During your visit, be specific about your symptoms and the situation leading up to vertigo. Tell your provider about any sudden head movements or change in positions, along with any medications you’re taking and recent changes in types or dosages. The information you provide will help your doctor diagnose the problem and customize your treatment.

 

Vertigo Causes

The main causes of vertigo are disorders of the inner ear. These include:

  • Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Crystals in the inner ear move and resettle in places they shouldn’t.
  • Vestibular neuritis, which occurs when the vestibular nerve becomes inflamed, usually the result of a viral infection.
  • Meniere’s disease, caused by a buildup of fluid in the inner ear.

Other vertigo causes can include stroke (including mini stroke, or transient ischemic attacks), panic disorders, brain tumors, and migraine headaches.

 

Vertigo Treatment at Dignity Health North State

When you visit an ER for vertigo, your provider may perform one or more tests to diagnose the cause. Common examinations include: 

Once your Dignity Health North State doctor has determined the cause of the problem, he or she can create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs. 

ER doctors at Dignity Health North State offer treatment for vertigo in Mt. Shasta, Red Bluff, and Redding, CA.