Vertigo is the feeling of spinning even when there is no movement. It can last for a few seconds or days, triggered by changes in position, coughing, or sneezing. A problem with the ear causes it.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a condition that causes a person to feel dizzy. It is more common in adults but can occur in children as well. A person with vertigo may feel like they are spinning even when standing still. Or, they may feel as if the world around them is spinning.
Various things can cause vertigo, but it usually happens when a brain or inner ear problem affects balance. It is often a side effect of another, more minor condition, like sinus congestion from a cold. However, vertigo could also signify a more serious problem, so it is important to take your child to the doctor to be examined.
When Do Children Experience Vertigo?
A child may experience vertigo as a symptom of another underlying health condition. Common causes of vertigo in children include migraines, head injuries, and disorders of the inner ear or vestibular system. In general, children are less likely to experience vertigo than adults.
Vertigo can be extremely upsetting for a child and can occur in children of any age. Parents might notice when a child has an episode of vertigo by appearing clumsy or nauseous or if their eyes are darting back and forth. It is crucial to get treatment for vertigo as it can be indicative of a serious illness and can result in injuries due to the imbalance and lack of coordination it causes.
What Causes Vertigo in Children?
Vertigo or dizziness can occur in children. It may be a sign of an underlying eardrum problem. Here are the many causes of vertigo:
- A middle-ear infection, also called middle-ear effusion, is a condition in which fluid builds up behind the eardrum. This can cause a child’s sense of balance to be temporarily disrupted.
- Labyrinthitis is an inner ear infection that results in a loss of balance and coordination. Vestibular neuritis is a similar condition that affects the vestibular nerve, which controls balance. Both conditions can cause dizziness, vertigo, and nausea.
- Any head injury, whether it’s a concussion or something else, can also cause vertigo.
- A migraine is a headache often accompanied by vertigo or a feeling of dizziness. Migraines are thought to be caused by blood vessels in the brain dilating or expanding.
What Are the Available Treatments for Vertigo in Children?
There is no specific cure for vertigo, but there are treatments that can help to relieve the symptoms. In some cases, the condition may go away on its own.
If the child has an inner ear infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection. If the child has migraines, the doctor may prescribe medication to help relieve the headaches and prevent future attacks. If the child has BPPV, the doctor may recommend a series of head and neck exercises, known as the Epley maneuver, to help move the particles out of the inner ear.
In some cases, the doctor may recommend vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), a type of physical therapy that helps the brain learn how to compensate for losing balance.
Conclusion
It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of vertigo in children and the potential causes and treatments. If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
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