How to Get Rid of “Inner Ear Crystals” and Reduce Vertigo
If by “inner-ear crystals” you mean BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), the problem is usually tiny calcium crystals called otoconia that have moved into one of the inner-ear canals. When your head changes position, they can trigger brief episodes of spinning.
The main treatment: the Epley maneuver
The Epley maneuver, also called a canalith-repositioning maneuver, uses a series of controlled head and body movements to move the crystals back to an area where they no longer trigger vertigo. It often works within one or two treatments.
A healthcare professional can determine which ear and which canal are affected and teach you the appropriate maneuver. A home Epley maneuver may be appropriate once BPPV has been diagnosed.
⚠️ Don’t perform it blindly
The Epley maneuver isn’t appropriate for everyone. People with certain neck or back problems, vascular conditions or retinal detachment may need a different approach or professional supervision.
Until the vertigo settles:
- Sit down immediately when an attack begins.
- Get up slowly and use support if necessary.
- Keep good lighting when getting up at night.
- Avoid driving or other dangerous activities while dizzy.
- Take steps to prevent falls.
🚨 Don’t assume every case of vertigo is BPPV
BPPV typically causes brief spinning episodes triggered by head movement, often lasting less than a minute. Vertigo that is continuous, associated with hearing loss, severe headache, fainting, chest pain, difficulty speaking, facial drooping, weakness/numbness or inability to walk normally can have other causes and requires medical assessment.
