If I don’t have BPPV – why am I still dizzy?

By Experienced Physio & Neck Special Interest Physio, Helen Sibbald

You may have PPPD (Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness).

This is a common dysfunction of the vestibular system.

Symptoms include:

Persistent dizziness,

non- spinning vertigo

and/or unsteadiness.

Why does it happen?

It results from the brain not adapting after an event that triggered vestibular symptoms. BPPV is an example of a triggering vestibular event.
There are no tests/scans to show PPPD however, if you have it, you present in a characteristic way:
– The persistent dizziness and /or unsteadiness has been there for 3 months or more.
– Your symptoms are present most days, may sometimes be worse/better and can momentarily flare up for no reason or with movement.
– Usually, you feel worst:
1. when upright,
2. when exposed to moving or complex visual stimuli, and
3. during active or passive head motion.
– Typically, PPPD follows after an acute or episodic vestibular or balance- related problem.

Often, you will start to feel neck pain and headaches. This occurs when the head movements that provoke your symptoms are avoided, resulting in stiff neck joints and muscles.
Anxiety is common too – who wouldn’t be anxious if they had experienced these symptoms for so long?

So, unsurprisingly, you start avoiding activities for fear of provoking those awful symptoms.

But there is something you can do: See a Physio, for an exercise programme (vestibular rehabilitation), and some treatment for your neck, as well as an explanation about the condition.

The more you know, the less concern/worry, the less symptoms you will experience.

You could chat to your GP about medication (SSRI’s have been shown to be helpful). You could also see a Psychologist to help with strategies to cope with anxiety.
PPPD does not have to stop you from doing the things you want to do.

If you need Help diagnosing your Dizziness, or want someone to help guide your pathway, Helen Sibbald is exceptional and will be totally thorough with your assessment and communication.

Book with Helen in the clinic by calling 07 5500 6470 or Book Online 24/7