Vestibular System

The vestibular system is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation by detecting head movements and relaying this information to the brain.

The semicircular canals are fluid-filled tubes that sense rotational head movements.

The otoliths are small crystals that sense linear acceleration, such as when you walk or run.

The vestibulocochlear nerve carries signals from the vestibular system and the auditory system to the brain.

Vertigo is a condition characterized by a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often caused by a problem with the vestibular system.

BPPV is a common cause of vertigo, caused by small calcium crystals becoming dislodged in the inner ear.

BPPV is typically treated with specific physical maneuvers performed by a trained healthcare professional.

Ménière's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that can cause episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.

Ménière's disease is typically treated with medication to reduce symptoms such as vertigo and nausea.

Vestibular neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which can cause sudden vertigo, nausea, and vomiting.

Vestibular neuritis is typically treated with medication to reduce symptoms and physical therapy to help restore balance and spatial orientation.

Acoustic neuroma is a type of cancer that affects the auditory nerve, which can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems.

Acoustic neuroma is typically treated with surgery to remove the tumor.

The cerebellum plays a role in coordinating eye movements in response to head movements, helping to maintain visual stability.

The VOR is a reflex that stabilizes gaze during head movements by generating eye movements in the opposite direction of head movement.