A quick and simple treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of vertigo, due to displaced crystals in the inner ear.
After BPPV has been diagnosed with a Dix-Hallpike test, the Epley manoeuvre can be performed in clinic. It takes a couple of minutes and involves a series of controlled and sequential head movements whilst lying on a couch. The aim is to reposition the crystals to the correct part of the inner ear. The success rate of the Epley manoeuvre is approximately 90%.
The Epley manoeuvre can sometimes make the vertigo worse for several hours or days. Driving should be avoided until the vertigo has settled and patients should arrange to be driven home after the procedure.
It is advised to sleep with an extra pillow for the next few nights. The manoeuvre can be repeated if the vertigo does not settle completely after the first procedure.
