Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can affect anyone at any age. It is often associated with a sense of motion sickness, which can make you feel nauseous and disoriented, and can lead to falls and physical injuries. While the condition can be frightening, it is usually not serious and can be treated with medication, physical therapy or other techniques.

Vertigo can be caused by a range of factors. Sometimes, it is triggered by an inner ear disorder, such as benign positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals become dislodged in the inner ear and float around, interfering with the signals that the brain uses to maintain balance. Other causes of vertigo include ear infections, migraine headaches, head injuries, or certain medications.

The symptoms of vertigo can vary depending on the individual. You may feel like the world is spinning, tilting, or shifting around you. You might also experience a sense of lightheadedness, feel unsteady on your feet, or have difficulty maintaining your balance. In some cases, vertigo can also cause ringing in the ears, sweating, or feeling sick to your stomach.

While vertigo can be uncomfortable and unsettling, there are a number of treatments available that can help. If you experience vertigo, your doctor may suggest medication to relieve your symptoms, or physical therapy to improve your balance and help retrain your brain to respond to signals from the inner ear. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a problem with the inner ear or brain function.

To prevent vertigo, it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This means eating a balanced diet, not smoking, getting enough sleep, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can trigger vertigo symptoms. Staying active can also help strengthen your muscles and improve your balance, which can reduce your risk of falls and other injuries.

If you experience vertigo or any other symptoms of dizziness or lightheadedness, it is important to see a doctor right away. While the condition is usually not life-threatening, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention. Your doctor can help diagnose the cause and provide the appropriate treatment to relieve your symptoms and get you back to feeling like yourself again.