Attacks of vertigo appear suddenly, last from a few to 24 h, and subside gradually. The attacks are associated with nausea and vomiting. Tinnitus may be constant or intermittent and may be worse before, after, or during an attack of vertigo. Treatment Treatment is empirical. A number of surgical procedures are advocated for patients who are disabled by frequent vertiginous attacks.
Vestibular neurectomy relieves the vertigo and usually preserves the hearing.
A labyrinthectomy can be performed if the vertigo is sufficiently disabling and hearing has degenerated to a useless level. 6 to 8 h is particularly effective in relieving the distress of severe vertigo by sedating the vestibular system. All rights reserved.