Vertigo facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Vertigo

Vertigo is the feeling that a person or the world around them is spinning.
ICD-10	H81., R42.
ICD-9	438.85, 780.4
DiseasesDB	29286
eMedicine	article/1159385
MeSH	D014717

Vertigo is a feeling that you or the world around you is spinning or swaying. It's not the same as feeling dizzy or lightheaded. Vertigo makes you feel like you're moving when you're actually still.

This feeling can be caused by different health issues. Sometimes, vertigo happens because of a type of headache called a migraine. When this happens, it's called migraine-associated vertigo. It can occur before, during, or after a migraine headache. For some people, vertigo or dizziness is the main symptom of their migraine, even more than a headache.

What Causes Vertigo?

Vertigo often happens when there's a problem with your inner ear. Your inner ear helps control your balance. When signals from your inner ear don't match what your eyes or body feel, your brain can get confused. This confusion leads to the spinning sensation of vertigo.

Different Kinds of Vertigo

Vertigo linked to migraines can feel different for each person. Here are some ways it might show up:

• Episodic True Vertigo: This is when you have clear, sudden attacks of spinning. These episodes can last from a few minutes to several hours.
• Positional Vertigo: This type happens when you move your head into certain positions. For example, it might occur when you lie down, sit up, or turn over in bed.
• Constant Imbalance: Some people feel unsteady or off-balance most of the time. It's like walking on a boat, even when you're on solid ground.
• Movement-Triggered Vertigo: Certain movements can make you feel dizzy or cause vertigo. This might include quick head turns or riding in a car.

Vertigo can sometimes be triggered by looking down from a high place.

How is Vertigo Treated?

If you experience vertigo, it's important to talk to a doctor. They can figure out what's causing it. Treatment depends on the cause. For migraine-associated vertigo, doctors might suggest medicines that help with migraines. They might also recommend exercises that help your brain get used to the confusing signals. These exercises are called vestibular rehabilitation.

Images for kids

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  A drawing showing the sensation of vertigo

See also

In Spanish: Vértigo para niños