Can otolithiasis be treated with surgery?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 19, 2024
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Ear stone disease is referred to as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a common otolaryngological condition of the inner ear, primarily presenting as vertigo. The treatment mainly involves manual or mechanical repositioning of the otoliths. After repositioning, self-functional exercises are conducted along with pharmacological treatments to alleviate or mitigate residual symptoms. For cases of ear stone disease with severe symptoms or complex conditions where manual repositioning is insufficient, or if the BPPV is a secondary condition accompanying other inner ear diseases, surgical interventions may be considered, such as inner ear drug injections or semicircular canal occlusion. These surgical methods are considered last-resort options, not first-line treatments.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Does vertigo cause vomiting?

Ear stone disease is a relatively common otolaryngological condition, with dizziness being the most common clinical symptom, and some patients may experience vomiting. This is mainly due to severe dizziness symptoms leading to nausea and vomiting. Generally, symptoms will gradually improve after the acute onset, but symptoms can be triggered again when the body or head position is changed to a certain posture. After the onset of the disease, it is necessary to visit the otolaryngology department as soon as possible. Manual repositioning treatment can be considered, and regular follow-up is required during the treatment process, as some patients may experience a recurrence of the condition.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Does otolithiasis cause headaches?

Ear stone disease, also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, has two types: primary ear stone disease and secondary ear stone disease. Clinically, ear stone disease mainly manifests as vertigo, as well as symptoms of the vestibular system or autonomic nervous system caused by vertigo, such as nausea and vomiting. Patients with ear stone disease rarely or almost never experience headaches. If headache symptoms are present, they are often accompanied by other diseases, such as hypertension, intracranial lesions, etc. These conditions can also cause ear stone disease, which are referred to as secondary ear stone disease as mentioned above. Therefore, if a patient with ear stone disease develops headache symptoms, active examination should be undertaken to avoid missing other lesions.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How is otolithiasis diagnosed?

Otolith disease is a relatively common otolaryngological disorder, clinically known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. In terms of diagnosis, the first step is to observe clinical symptoms. Otolith disease typically manifests as brief episodes of dizziness, lasting about a few seconds, and is clearly related to changes in body or head position. If the head position is stabilized, the symptoms of dizziness usually disappear quickly, and there is no tinnitus or hearing loss. Additional diagnostic tests can also be conducted, such as positional testing or vestibular function tests. During positional testing, a certain position might trigger a brief episode of dizziness, which helps in identifying the specific semicircular canal involved. In terms of treatment, manual repositioning can be considered, and it is generally quite effective for most patients.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Is otolithiasis prone to recurrence?

Ear stone disease, also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, is a relatively common otolaryngological condition that tends to recur. According to the current treatment protocols, the first consideration is manual repositioning treatment. After standardized manual repositioning treatment, most patients can gradually recover and alleviate their symptoms. Some patients respond very well and can recover immediately after manual repositioning, but there is a possibility of recurrence. Therefore, regular otolaryngological check-ups are necessary, and the head must not be subjected to external impacts. In the short term, avoid vigorous exercise and monitor the recovery of the condition.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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What should be paid attention to with otolithiasis?

Clinically, ear stone syndrome is referred to as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Concerning this condition, the following points should be noted: Firstly, active treatment is essential, primarily involving manual or mechanical repositioning, as well as functional exercises after repositioning; this is mandatory. Secondly, safety precautions must be taken. Patients with ear stone syndrome should not be near the edges of high buildings or ponds to prevent unforeseen accidents that could be triggered by sudden bouts of vertigo. Thirdly, dietary habits are important. The diet should be light, and stimulating substances such as tobacco, alcohol, spicy foods, and coffee should be avoided. Lastly, it is important to avoid excessive exercise, particularly activities involving too much spinning.