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Peripheral Vestibular Disorders

Inner ear and vestibular nerve pathologies causing vertigo, imbalance, and nystagmus.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Peripheral Vestibular Disorders?

Peripheral vestibular disorders are pathologies of the inner ear (semicircular canals, otoliths, cochlea) and vestibular nerve, characterized by vertigo, dizziness, imbalance, nystagmus, and often hearing changes. They are distinguished from central vestibular disorders by clinical features and HINTS examination.

Common entities include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Meniere's disease, labyrinthitis, perilymphatic fistula, and superior semicircular canal dehiscence. Each has distinctive triggers, duration, and associated symptoms guiding diagnosis.

Diagnostic evaluation includes Dix-Hallpike maneuver (BPPV), HINTS plus (head impulse, nystagmus, test of skew), audiometry, videonystagmography, and MRI when central pathology is suspected. Treatment is condition-specific: canalith repositioning for BPPV, vestibular suppressants and rehabilitation for neuritis, and dietary/medical/surgical for Meniere's.

Symptoms

Vertigo (spinning sensation)
Imbalance and unsteadiness
Nystagmus (peripheral pattern)
Nausea and vomiting
Hearing loss or tinnitus (some causes)
Aural fullness
Symptoms triggered by position change

Risk Factors

Older age (BPPV)
Recent viral infection (vestibular neuritis)
Migraine history
Head trauma
Family history of Meniere's
Cardiovascular risk factors
Inner ear surgery or barotrauma

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Acute or recurrent severe vertigo
  • Hearing loss with vertigo
  • Persistent imbalance
  • Position-triggered vertigo
  • Failed conservative measures
  • Need to exclude central causes

Treatment Methods

01
Epley/Semont maneuver for BPPV
02
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy
03
Vestibular suppressants (short-term)
04
Antiemetics for acute vertigo
05
Low-salt diet and diuretics for Meniere's
06
Intratympanic gentamicin or steroids
07
Surgery for refractory Meniere's or fistula

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.