Vertigo is a sudden sensation that makes you feel like the room is spinning around you. It can also make you feel like you’re tilting, rocking, or unsteady. These vertigo sensations are worsened if you stand up, walk, or move your head around. It can be physically exhausting and taxing to those experiencing it, and even more so if you don’t know how to prevent dizziness and vertigo. The sensations can be so severe that it can leave you feeling nauseated or cause vomiting. It goes beyond simply feeling dizzy.
A vertigo attack could last a few seconds or several hours. If your vertigo is very severe, it could last for several days or months. Vertigo may be a symptom of another condition too. If you’re experiencing vertigo now, I have created a 5 step plan to get out of the vertigo spins you can download. It has helped many people get relief from vertigo quickly.
Quick Answer: Vertigo prevention starts with finding the cause: most often BPPV (inner-ear crystals), visual/oculomotor issues, TMJ dysfunction, or cervical spine misalignment. Simple maneuvers (Epley/Semont), hydration/sleep, and reducing physical, chemical, and emotional stress can reduce attacks. Seek care if symptoms persist, worsen, or include red flags (neurologic changes).
KEY TAKEAWAYS
What causes most cases of vertigo?
The most common causes of vertigo are BPPV (loose crystals in the semicircular canals), vision or oculomotor issues, TMJ dysfunction, and cervical spine misalignment that disrupts balance signals.
How can I stop a vertigo attack quickly?
The Epley maneuver and Semont maneuver are the fastest home techniques for BPPV-related vertigo. They reposition inner-ear crystals and can reduce spinning sensations within minutes.
Can vertigo be prevented?
Often yes, by correcting the underlying cause and managing physical stress, chemical stress (diet/hydration), and emotional stress (breathing, therapy, regulation).
When should I see a doctor for vertigo?
Seek care if vertigo is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by hearing loss, severe headache, fainting, slurred speech, or weakness—these may indicate something more serious than BPPV.
What are the four most common causes of vertigo?
Vertigo is most commonly caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) involving the semicircular canals, visual or oculomotor dysfunction, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and misalignment of the cervical spine, all of which can disrupt the body’s balance system.
While there are a variety of different kinds of vertigo as well as what can cause it, there are four main factors that drive vertigo and cause it to happen.
- Semicircular Canals: This is a very common cause of vertigo. Issues with this is usually what causes BPPV also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, it happens when tiny canalith particles in the inner ear break loose and fall into the semicircular canals of the inner ear.
- Eyes: When our eyes aren’t processing properly or are off balance, the input into our brain and the balance center can wind up being off. Having your eyes checked to make sure that they’re working properly is important.
- Jaw: The jaw and inner ear share a common ligament. So, the bones that are responsible for hearing are also connected with the anatomy of the temporo-mandibular joint. Things like TMJ which trigger stress on the jaw joints can end up affecting the middle ear structure, which is responsible for maintaining equilibrium and can cause vertigo.
- Cervical Spine: This is most commonly overlooked, the bones throughout the neck wind up influencing the balance centers of the brain and can completely throw off your balance and cause you to get into vertigo spins very regularly making sure that your cervical spine and your neck is in the normal position is vital to prevent vertigo.
Is BPPV the most common cause of vertigo?
Yes. BPPV, caused by loose calcium crystals in the semicircular canals, is one of the most common causes of sudden spinning sensations, especially in adults over 50.
Can multiple vertigo causes happen at the same time?
Yes. Issues with the inner ear, TMJ, vision/oculomotor system, and cervical spine can overlap. Many patients have more than one contributing factor.
Which maneuvers can stop a vertigo attack quickly?
The Epley maneuver and Semont maneuver, two clinically recognized treatments for BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), can often stop a vertigo attack by repositioning displaced otoconia (“ear crystals”) in the semicircular canals of the inner ear.
These maneuvers work by guiding the canaliths out of the sensitive part of the vestibular system, reducing dizziness and restoring balance. Depending on what exactly is causing your vertigo, different maneuvers may prove more effective than others. You should always have these maneuvers done with the help of a professional until you learn how to properly perform them with confidence on your own.
How does the Epley maneuver help stop vertigo?
This is a series of movements, normally done on a patient by a doctor, to relieve the symptoms of vertigo, specifically BPPV. This is done by attempting to reposition crystals in the ear that may cause feelings of dizziness.
How to Perform the Epley Maneuver:
Sit on your bed with legs extended and turn your head 45° toward the affected ear.
Lie back quickly with your head 30° below horizontal, keeping it turned; hold 30–120 seconds.
Rotate your head 90° to the opposite side without lifting it; hold 30–120 seconds.
Roll onto your side in the same direction so your nose points downward; hold 30–120 seconds.
Sit up slowly and remain seated until dizziness resolves.
How many times should I do the Epley maneuver?
Most people perform it 1–3 times per session. If vertigo persists after several days, seek a professional evaluation.
Which side should I treat if I’m not sure which ear is affected?
A clinician can diagnose the correct side using positional tests. Doing the Epley on the wrong side won’t usually cause harm, but it won’t fully resolve symptoms.
How does the Semont maneuver help stop vertigo?
This maneuver involves moving rapidly from lying on one side to lying on the other to move the ear crystals out of the sensitive part of the ear. To perform this maneuver:
How to Perform the Semont Maneuver:
Sit on the edge of your bed and turn your head 45° away from the affected ear.
Quickly lie down on the affected-ear side while keeping your head angled; hold 30–60 seconds.
In one rapid motion, move to the opposite side without changing head position; hold 30–60 seconds.
Return slowly to sitting and rest until symptoms improve.
If your right ear is what is causing the vertigo, then start by turning your head to the left instead.
Is the Semont maneuver better than the Epley maneuver?
The Semont works well for certain types of BPPV or when neck mobility is limited. Epley is generally preferred for posterior canal BPPV.
Can I perform the Semont maneuver alone?
Yes, but it involves rapid movements. Many people need assistance until they are comfortable with the technique.
If these maneuvers don’t do the trick, or if you’re looking for another to try, I’ve done a video demonstrating how to do a third maneuver to get out of vertigo spins.
What everyday factors can make vertigo worse or more frequent?
Vertigo flare-ups are strongly influenced by three stress-related factors: physical stress, chemical stress, and emotional stress. All three affect the vestibular system, cervical spine, and inner-ear balance mechanisms that regulate equilibrium.
How does physical stress contribute to vertigo?
Physical stress, including past injuries, poor posture, whiplash, and cervical spine misalignment, can disrupt the vestibular system and brain–body communication, making vertigo episodes more frequent and severe.
This covers more than just recent physical stressors and injuries though; this encompasses what you’ve experienced throughout your entire life. What most people don’t realize is that running into the corner of a table that cuts your head open when you’re younger, even though that injury was taken care of at the time, chances are it also affected and changed the structures in your spine. Later in life, you get headaches or neck pain maybe in your mid-30s, these are warning signs that your spine is out of alignment and that your body is breaking down.
Covering up symptoms with things like pain killers and not taking care of the cause of the problem will cause more significant problems to show up and is why many people over 50 start to experience problems with vertigo spinning and dizziness issues.
Additionally, physical stresses can come in the way of movement and activity you do on a regular basis such as:
- Exercises and workouts
- How you sit at your desk
- Playing with your children
- Car accidents
- Sports
These all play a role and can affect your spinal health. Which is why it is critical to ensure it is properly aligned and ensures your brain can connect to your body properly.
Can neck tension alone cause dizziness?
Yes. Tight muscles can restrict blood flow, irritate nerves, or alter proprioceptive signals, creating vertigo-like sensations.
Can old injuries really cause vertigo years later?
Yes. Old whiplash or head injuries can alter cervical alignment long-term and contribute to dizziness as the spine degenerates or stiffens.
How do chemical stressors trigger dizziness and vertigo?
Chemical stressors such as dehydration, high sugar intake, alcohol, and medications with dizziness as a side effect can affect the inner ear, blood pressure, and vestibular function, increasing vertigo symptoms.
Chemical stress includes the foods you eat, fluids that you drink, medication that you take as well as supplements and nutrients. The cleaner we live, the better we live. You want to put in food and nutrients in the body and less drugs. I’ve created an article specifically on good and bad food for vertigo. Some chemical stressors in particular to be mindful of are:
- Decreasing alcohol intake
- Increasing water intake
- Avoiding food and drink with high sugar
- Checking labels on medication that to see if it lists dizziness as a side effect
Does dehydration cause vertigo?
Yes. Low fluid levels affect blood pressure and inner-ear function, often triggering dizziness and imbalance.
Which supplements help with vertigo?
Magnesium, vitamin D, B12, and ginger are commonly used, but responses vary. Always consult a clinician before trying new supplements.
Our recommended supplements for:
Fish Oils: https://www.metagenics.com/en-us/product/omegagenics-fish-oil-epa-dha-500?size=120
Vitamin D: https://www.metagenics.com/en-us/product/vitamin-d3-liquid?flavor=Mint&size=2275
Coenzyme Q10: https://www.metagenics.com/en-us/product/coq10-st-100?size=60
Use provider code ALIGNWC
Can emotional stress and anxiety make vertigo worse?
Emotional stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, raising cortisol levels and increasing muscle tension in the neck and jaw, all of which can intensify dizziness and vertigo in sensitive individuals.
Emotional stress has to do with the relationships that you have with people, how you manage relationships and emotions, and events in your life that affect you mentally. This is a more complex topic and has a lot of moving parts. If you’re experiencing this type of stress, there are a few things you can do to reduce it.
- Taking deep breaths
- Meditation
- Breathing exercises
- Seeking out therapy
Your emotional health can have a massive effect on your physical wellbeing, and it is just as important to keep healthy.
Can anxiety cause vertigo even if my ears are fine?
Yes. Anxiety can cause hyperventilation, muscle tension, and overstimulation of the balance centers, mimicking vestibular vertigo.
Does therapy help vertigo caused by stress?
Yes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, breathing exercises, and stress-management programs can reduce frequency and severity of stress-triggered episodes.
What can you do to reduce vertigo symptoms naturally?
You can reduce vertigo symptoms by improving hydration, supporting the vestibular system, correcting cervical spine misalignment, maintaining healthy nutrient intake, and following proven BPPV maneuvers like the Epley or Semont techniques.
Oftentimes, we ignore the signs our bodies give us with something is off. One of the first steps you can take to beating vertigo and living a life with better overall health is to listen to your body. If you experience vertigo, it can be challenging and cause a lot of dead ends for those who seek to get relief. I’ve created a vertigo steps plan to get you out of the spins and give you another resource to use.
At Align Wellness Center, we have helped thousands of people to restore the proper position of their cervical spine and it’s been amazing how many of them have eliminated vertigo episodes for the rest of their lives. Vertigo prevention is possible if the right steps are taken. If you haven’t had your spine looked at by a corrective chiropractor, this may be why you have not had success in getting rid of vertigo, even though you’ve worked with neurologists, neurosurgeons, and physical therapists.
If you’d like tips on how you can stay healthy and well without drugs and surgery, go ahead and check out other articles on this site. If you continue to struggle with vertigo and dizziness, give us a call at Align Wellness Center (847) 564-9500 or schedule an appointment online. Align Wellness Center helps patients with vertigo and dizziness in Northbrook, Deerfield, Glencoe, Glenview, Highland Park, Northfield, and Winnetka. New patient consultations are available!
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Prevent Dizziness and Vertigo
Can vertigo be prevented permanently?
Not always, but many people significantly reduce or eliminate vertigo episodes by treating the root cause, most commonly BPPV, TMJ dysfunction, vision/oculomotor issues, or cervical spine misalignment. Lifestyle changes, hydration, and stress management also play a major role in long-term prevention.
How long does BPPV vertigo usually last?
A typical BPPV episode lasts a few seconds to one minute but may recur for days or weeks until the displaced ear crystals are repositioned. The Epley or Semont maneuver often provides rapid improvement.
Does vertigo get worse at night?
Yes, vertigo can worsen when lying down or turning over in bed because head-position changes shift the otoconia in the inner ear. This is especially common with BPPV.
Do I need an MRI if I have dizziness or vertigo?
Most vertigo cases do not require an MRI. Imaging is usually only recommended when symptoms include hearing loss, severe headache, numbness, weakness, vision changes, or if vertigo does not match typical BPPV patterns.
Can anxiety or stress cause vertigo even if my ears are normal?
Yes. Stress and anxiety activate the fight-or-flight response and increase neck and jaw tension, which can trigger dizziness or vertigo-like sensations even without an inner-ear disorder.
Does dehydration cause dizziness or vertigo?
Absolutely. Low hydration affects blood pressure, inner-ear fluid balance, and your vestibular system, making dizziness more likely, especially in hot weather or after exercise.
Can neck problems (cervical spine issues) really cause vertigo?
Yes. Cervical spine misalignment or muscle tension can alter proprioceptive input to the brain and disrupt balance signals, leading to chronic dizziness or vertigo.
Is it safe to perform the Epley or Semont maneuver at home?
Usually, yes, but only once you’ve been shown the correct technique. If maneuvers cause severe nausea, vomiting, fainting, or neurological symptoms, stop immediately and seek professional care.
When should I see a doctor for vertigo?
Seek medical evaluation if vertigo is sudden, severe, persistent, accompanied by neurological symptoms, or not improving with standard BPPV maneuvers. Professional assessment is also recommended if you’re unsure which ear is affected.
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