Vertigo (BPPV, vestibular)†
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That sudden spinning sensation when you roll over in bed, tilt your head back, or stand up too quickly — it's unsettling, sometimes frightening, and often misunderstood. Vertigo isn't just dizziness. It's a signal from your vestibular system, the intricate balance network housed in your inner ear, that something is off. At Modern Human MD, Dr. Tran takes a thorough, integrative approach to identifying what's driving your symptoms — and helping you get back to moving through the world without fear.
Why People Choose Modern Human MD for Vertigo Care
Careful evaluation to distinguish between BPPV, vestibular neuritis, and other causes
Hands-on repositioning maneuvers that can resolve BPPV quickly and without medication
Attention to underlying contributors like inflammation, hormonal shifts, and stress
A calm, unhurried approach — because vertigo deserves more than a rushed appointment
Who It May Help
- You experience spinning or tilting sensations triggered by head movement or position changes
- You've had unexplained dizziness that comes and goes without a clear cause
- You've been told you have BPPV but haven't had it properly treated
- You feel unsteady on your feet, especially in low-light environments
- Nausea, brain fog, or sensitivity to motion accompanies your dizziness
- Your symptoms have been dismissed or attributed to anxiety without further investigation
- You want to understand what's causing your vertigo, not just mask the symptoms
Understanding Vertigo and Its Causes
The most common form of vertigo is BPPV — benign paroxysmal positional vertigo — which occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear shift out of place and send confusing signals to the brain. Episodes are typically brief but can be intense and recurring. Other vestibular causes include vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, and Meniere's disease, each with its own pattern of symptoms. Hormonal changes, inflammation, stress, and even certain nutritional deficiencies can also influence vestibular function. Dr. Tran looks at the full picture — not just the inner ear — to understand what may be contributing to your symptoms and what's most likely to help.
How Vertigo Is Evaluated and Treated
Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and physical exam, including specific positional tests that can identify BPPV with a high degree of accuracy. When BPPV is confirmed, the Epley maneuver — a gentle, guided series of head movements — can often resolve symptoms in one or two visits. For vestibular dysfunction beyond BPPV, Dr. Tran may explore contributing factors through targeted lab work, lifestyle assessment, and integrative strategies that support the nervous system and inner ear environment. The goal is always to understand the root cause and build a plan that addresses it directly.
Before Your First Visit
- ✓Note when your vertigo started, how long episodes last, and what seems to trigger them
- ✓Track whether symptoms are worse with specific movements, positions, or times of day
- ✓List any recent illnesses, head injuries, or significant stressors that preceded your symptoms
- ✓Bring a record of any medications or supplements you're currently taking
Important
While most vertigo is benign and highly treatable, some forms of dizziness can signal conditions that require prompt medical attention. Dr. Tran will evaluate your symptoms carefully to rule out any serious underlying causes before proceeding with treatment. If you experience sudden severe vertigo accompanied by headache, vision changes, weakness, or difficulty speaking, seek emergency care immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What does BPPV actually feel like?
BPPV typically causes brief but intense spinning sensations triggered by specific head movements — like rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending forward. Episodes usually last less than a minute but can feel very disorienting while they're happening.
2Can BPPV be treated without medication?
Yes, and in most cases it should be. The Epley maneuver is a simple, in-office repositioning technique that guides the displaced inner ear crystals back into place. Many people experience significant relief after just one or two sessions.
3How do I know if my dizziness is vertigo or something else?
True vertigo involves a sensation of spinning or movement — either you feel like you're moving or the room feels like it's moving around you. Other types of dizziness may feel more like lightheadedness or imbalance. A thorough evaluation can help distinguish between them and point toward the right treatment.
4Can hormonal changes cause or worsen vertigo?
They can. Fluctuations in estrogen and other hormones — particularly around menstruation, perimenopause, or times of significant stress — have been associated with increased vestibular sensitivity and vertigo episodes in some people.
5Will my vertigo come back after treatment?
BPPV can recur, though many people go months or years between episodes. Dr. Tran can teach you home exercises to use if symptoms return and work with you on strategies that may help reduce recurrence over time.
6How does Modern Human MD handle payment for vertigo care?
Modern Human MD is a direct-pay practice, which means no insurance billing and no surprise costs. All fees are discussed with you upfront so you know exactly what to expect before your visit.
You don't have to keep living around your vertigo.
Dr. Tran offers a thorough, integrative evaluation to find what's driving your symptoms — and a clear, personalized plan to help you feel steady and confident again.
Quick call • No obligation • Speak directly with our team