BPPV Vertigo Treatment in Seomyeon, Busan

BPPV vertigo treatment relieves benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, brief spinning dizziness triggered by turning in bed, lying down or looking up. It happens when tiny crystals in the inner ear move into a balance canal. At Seomyeon ENT clinics, diagnosis uses positional tests with video goggles, and treatment is a repositioning maneuver such as the Epley, often effective within one to a few sessions.

Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:

What is BPPV?

The inner ear contains tiny calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) that help sense gravity. In BPPV, some crystals break loose and drift into one of the semicircular canals that detect rotation. When you move your head in certain directions, the crystals shift and send false spinning signals to the brain. BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo and is more frequent in older adults, after head injury, or after periods of bed rest.

Symptoms and when to see a doctor

• Short bursts of spinning when rolling over in bed, lying down, getting up or tipping the head back
• Nausea during episodes
• Feeling unsteady between episodes

Seek emergency care (call 119) if dizziness comes with severe headache, double vision, slurred speech, weakness, numbness, difficulty walking or is continuous and severe, as these may indicate a stroke.

What happens at the clinic

1. History: timing and triggers distinguish BPPV from other vertigo causes such as vestibular neuritis or Meniere's disease.
2. Positional testing: the Dix-Hallpike and supine roll tests provoke brief vertigo while video goggles record eye movements (nystagmus) that identify the affected canal.
3. Repositioning maneuver: the doctor moves your head and body through a sequence of positions to guide crystals back where they belong.
4. Re-test: positional tests may be repeated; another maneuver is done if needed.
5. Additional tests: hearing tests or further balance tests if the picture is unclear.

Recovery and aftercare

Many people feel better immediately or within days, though mild unsteadiness can linger. Move carefully for the rest of the day. Some clinicians teach home exercises for recurrences. Vestibular rehabilitation helps residual imbalance.

Risks and side effects

Maneuvers temporarily trigger vertigo and nausea. Rarely, crystals move into another canal, needing a different maneuver. People with severe neck or back problems may need modified techniques.

Choosing a clinic for BPPV in Seomyeon

• Ask whether video goggles are used to identify the affected canal precisely.
• Ask whether the doctor treats all canal types, not just the most common one.
• Ask about home exercises in case of recurrence.
• If dizziness is not typical BPPV, ask what other tests are needed.
• Arrange someone to accompany you if you feel unsteady.

Getting there safely

Take a taxi if you feel unsteady. Seomyeon's ENT clinics are also near the station for those well enough to use Lines 1 or 2.

Key facts

• Korean term: 이석증 (양성 돌발성 자세 현훈)
• Symptoms: brief spinning (usually under a minute) with head position changes
• Diagnosis: Dix-Hallpike and roll tests, often with video goggles
• Treatment: canalith repositioning maneuvers (Epley, Barbecue roll, others)
• Sessions: often 1–3
• Recurrence: common over months to years
• Medication: generally not needed long term

Frequently asked questions

How quickly does the Epley maneuver work?

Many people improve immediately or within a day or two after one or a few maneuvers. Mild unsteadiness may last a little longer.

Can BPPV come back?

Yes, recurrence is common over months to years. Repositioning is usually effective again, and some people learn home exercises.

Is BPPV dangerous?

BPPV itself is not dangerous, but dizziness can cause falls. Vertigo with neurological symptoms needs emergency assessment to rule out stroke.

Do I need medication for BPPV?

Repositioning maneuvers treat the cause. Anti-nausea or vestibular suppressant medicines may help briefly but are not recommended long term.

Should I see an ENT doctor or a neurologist for vertigo?

For positional spinning typical of BPPV, an ENT doctor is a good start. Neurological symptoms or atypical patterns need neurological assessment.

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Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.