You can try a simple at-home test to check for positional vertigo.
While this isn't a substitute for a professional medical evaluation, here's a sequence you can try to assess potential vertigo triggers, based on information available as of June 6, 2023. This test is derived from the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, commonly used by doctors to diagnose Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
At-Home Vertigo Test Steps
Here's a step-by-step guide to try at home:
- Starting Position: Sit upright on the edge of your bed.
- Head Turn: Turn your head 45 degrees to the right.
- Lie Down: Quickly lie down on your left side, keeping your head at the 45-degree angle. Stay in this position for approximately 30 seconds.
- Opposite Side: Quickly move to lie down on the opposite end of your bed, so you are now on your right side, keeping your head turned. Maintain this position for roughly 30 seconds.
- Return to Sitting: Slowly return to an upright, seated position. Wait for a few minutes to observe any delayed symptoms.
- Repeat for the Other Ear: Reverse the moves and repeat the entire sequence, starting by turning your head 45 degrees to the left to test the right ear.
What to Look For
- Dizziness/Vertigo: Note if you experience a spinning sensation or dizziness during any of these movements.
- Nystagmus: Although you can't easily observe this yourself, this test looks for nystagmus, which are involuntary eye movements, a key indicator of BPPV. (This would require another person to observe your eyes during the maneuver.)
Important Considerations:
- Safety: Perform this test in a safe environment where you can lie down without risk of falling.
- Professional Evaluation: This at-home test does not replace a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional. If you experience vertigo, it's crucial to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Self-treating vertigo can be dangerous if the underlying cause is something serious.
- Other Causes: Vertigo can stem from a variety of factors beyond BPPV, including inner ear infections, Meniere's disease, and even certain medications.
