Vertigo Differential Diagnosis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is the most common cause of vertigo, characterized by brief, episodic vertigo triggered by specific head movements. It is often related to the movement of otolith crystals in the inner ear.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vestibular Migraine: A condition where vertigo is associated with migraine headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms like headache, sensitivity to light, and nausea.
- Labyrinthitis: An inner ear disorder characterized by inflammation of the labyrinth, leading to vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
- Meniere's Disease: A disorder of the inner ear that affects balance and hearing, causing vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and ear fullness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less common, vertigo can be a symptom of a stroke or TIA, especially when accompanied by other neurological deficits. Early recognition is crucial for timely intervention.
- Posterior Circulation Stroke: Vertigo can be a presenting symptom of a stroke in the posterior circulation, which supplies the brainstem and cerebellum.
- Multiple Sclerosis: In some cases, vertigo can be an initial symptom of multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
Rare Diagnoses
- Acoustic Neuroma: A rare, benign tumor on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, which can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
- Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence: A rare condition where there is an abnormal opening in the bone overlying the superior semicircular canal, leading to vertigo and hearing symptoms.
- Perilymphatic Fistula: A rare condition where there is an abnormal connection between the inner and middle ear, causing vertigo, hearing loss, and other symptoms.