Who is prone to developing otolith disease?
Recently, every time I turn over, I feel the room spinning around, accompanied by nausea and the urge to vomit. After visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Why did I develop this condition? Who is more likely to get BPPV?
Doctor's answer (1)
Otolithiasis refers to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Generally, the elderly, individuals with head injuries, those with ear diseases, people experiencing excessive fatigue or high mental stress, and individuals with certain lifestyle habits are more prone to developing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
1. The Elderly
With advancing age, accelerated degeneration and reduced absorption capacity of otoliths, combined with factors such as osteoporosis, calcium metabolism disorders, and hormonal changes, lead to decreased stability and increased susceptibility to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo among the elderly.
2. Individuals with Head Injuries
Head trauma, especially mild injuries occurring days or weeks prior, may secondarily lead to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, presenting symptoms such as sudden vertigo.
3. Patients with Ear Diseases
Conditions such as Ménière's disease, middle ear and mastoiditis, or post-ear surgery can easily induce otolith detachment, causing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
4. Individuals Experiencing Excessive Fatigue or High Mental Stress
Long-term insomnia, anxiety, depression, and overexertion can place the body in a state of stress, causing vasoconstriction in the inner ear and affecting its blood supply, which may also trigger benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
5. Individuals with Specific Lifestyle Habits
Those who frequently stay up late, experience significant emotional fluctuations, or often engage in activities involving rapid changes in head position—such as beauty treatments or specific head maneuvers during medical examinations—may also have an increased risk of developing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
In daily life, it is recommended to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, undergo regular health check-ups, and promptly treat related conditions. If symptoms such as vertigo occur, prompt medical consultation is advised for diagnosis and treatment by a qualified physician.
