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Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), also known as loose ear crystals, occurs when small crystals in the inner ear move into the semicircular canals, where there is typically only fluid, not stones or crystals.
The dizziness that occurs with head movements usually lasts only 15-20 seconds. Once the diagnosis is made, treatment is straightforward in the hands of an experienced specialist.
We do not recommend following online videos without first being examined by a specialist, as this can make accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment more difficult.
The symptoms of loose ear crystals (BPPV) are distinct from other types of dizziness.
What characterizes these episodes is that they come suddenly and intensely—but not out of nowhere. A specific movement is required to trigger the dizziness. If you remain still and avoid moving your head, it may be tolerable. However, as soon as the crystals move inside the inner ear, you experience intense dizziness, typically lasting 10-20 seconds, after which it gradually subsides.
If you experience signs of loose ear crystals (as described above), you should see a specialist as soon as possible. At Charlottenlund Privathospital, all our doctors are trained to assess dizziness, and all are experienced in treating loose ear crystals. You are guaranteed a quick appointment with us, as we always have a specialist on hand with expertise in treating this condition.
It’s also important to note that the sooner you seek and receive professional treatment, the easier it often is to treat, and the faster you will recover completely.
As soon as the specialist has determined which part of your balance organ is affected by loose ear crystals, the treatment will be carried out immediately.
For ear crystals in the posterior and anterior semicircular canals, the treatment is typically the Epley maneuver or the Semont maneuver. For ear crystals in the horizontal canals, a so-called BBQ roll will be performed.
Although the treatments themselves are relatively simple, it is extremely important to have accurately determined which semicircular canal is involved before the treatment is carried out.
Only in this way can the specialist and patient know which canal may need to be treated again if the initial treatment is not fully effective, ensuring that you receive the correct treatment.
There are many great videos on the internet showing the treatment of BPPV, also known as loose ear crystals.
At Charlottenlund Privathospital, we do NOT recommend that patients attempt these treatments before being thoroughly examined by a specialist. This is solely because it is often difficult to perform the correct treatment properly, which could complicate the diagnosis and make it harder for the specialist to provide the correct treatment.
There isn't just one semicircular canal, but rather six different canals, each requiring different treatment.
Therefore, seek a specialist and let them determine which canal is affected before you attempt treatments from the internet.
The so-called TRV chair can, in some cases, be an effective treatment for fixed ear stones, or if a patient has severe neck issues or is so overweight that they cannot get up and lie on a regular examination table (typically with a BMI >50).
However, the most common condition is loose ear stones (not fixed ear stones), which can be easily treated without the TRV chair.
At Charlottenlund Privathospital, we can always refer you for treatment in the TRV chair if the specialist determines that it is necessary.