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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 14, 2024
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Otolithiasis, also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, is primarily caused by abnormalities in the vestibular semicircular canals. It is a common condition with a relatively high incidence in clinical settings. It is generally recommended to consult either an otolaryngology or neurology department, as both are equipped to handle this condition.

There are several treatment methods available, with manual repositioning treatment being the preferred first choice. Most patients can recover after undergoing manual repositioning treatment. For a small portion of patients who do not respond well to manual repositioning, machine repositioning chairs can be considered, in conjunction with pharmacological treatment. However, for a very small group of patients who do not respond to conservative treatment, surgical treatment may need to be considered.

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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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Can vestibular neuritis cause high blood pressure?

Otolithiasis is a relatively common otolaryngologic disease, clinically known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Clinically, it mainly manifests as transient dizziness, but the duration is generally short, and most patients do not experience an increase in blood pressure. If the symptoms of dizziness are particularly severe and the patient is quite anxious, it may cause a temporary increase in blood pressure. However, if the symptoms of dizziness subside, the blood pressure will also decrease. This situation is relatively more pronounced in patients with hypertension. The treatment for otolithiasis primarily involves manual repositioning therapy, which is quite effective for most patients, although a small number of patients may need to combine it with oral medication.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can otolithiasis be treated with surgery?

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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Can you exercise with otolithiasis?

Patients with otolithiasis should avoid strenuous exercise during their episodes, as such activities may trigger an acute attack, leading to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, which can be severe in some cases. Therefore, it is crucial to rest after the onset of symptoms and then visit an otolaryngologist as soon as possible to determine the specific condition. In terms of treatment, most patients may consider manual repositioning therapies, which can gradually improve symptoms. However, there is also a possibility of recurrent attacks, so regular long-term follow-ups are essential to monitor recovery.

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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.