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DeutschVertigo is a commonly observed symptom in the community. It is often mistaken as a disease. In fact, just as a sore throat, nausea, or fever are signs of another illness, vertigo – or dizziness – is actually a symptom of an underlying condition.
The most common cause of diseases associated with dizziness is BPPV. These patients often struggle with imbalance and the sensation that the world is spinning. Moreover, this feeling is quite intense. In particular, in cases of horizontal canal BPPV, severe nausea and vomiting may also occur. This makes it a frightening experience for the patient.
There are various methods available for treating horizontal canal BPPV. One of the best-known treatment techniques is the Barbecue Maneuver. This method is simple and effective, with the potential to quickly reduce the symptoms experienced by patients. Consequently, it is among the practical solutions recommended for vertigo treatment.
Doctor Audiologist Emel Uğur
Dr. Audiologist Emel Uğur was born in 1982 in Çanakkale. During her 15-year tenure at Istanbul Training and Research Hospital, she primarily worked on Pediatric Audiology (Hearing Loss in Infants and Children), Otological Diseases (Ear Diseases and Hearing Health), and Vestibular System Disorders (Vertigo and Imbalance). In 2015, she joined the Acıbadem Healthcare Group.
About Me
What is BPPV?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is associated with dizziness and imbalance. This condition usually begins with the abnormal movement of small calcium crystals in the inner ear. Problems arise when these crystals, which normally play a critical role in balance by residing in the utricle, become dislodged and enter the semicircular canals. These canals detect head movements and send positional information to the brain. When the crystals become trapped in these canals, incorrect signals are sent to the brain, triggering the sensation of vertigo.
BPPV symptoms may occur under the following circumstances:
- Rapid turning in bed
- Tilting the head backward
- Bending forward
During these movements, vertigo episodes generally last only a short time. The episodes may last less than a minute, but during this period, symptoms such as disorientation and nausea can occur. These symptoms of BPPV can significantly affect daily activities and reduce a person’s quality of life. They are especially pronounced when getting out of bed in the morning.
How is the Barbecue Maneuver Performed?
The technique of the Barbecue Maneuver varies depending on the horizontal canal BPPV variant. Therefore, it is never appropriate to perform it at home.
Does the Barbecue Maneuver Have Risks?
The Barbecue Maneuver does have some side effects, which should be taken into account before it is performed. During the treatment process, patients typically experience dizziness; this is normal during the repositioning of the crystals. The dizziness usually lasts for a few seconds and, with each repetition, the severity of the symptoms decreases. Within the first 48 hours, patients may experience imbalance and mild discomfort. This is a temporary condition and generally diminishes as the treatment takes effect. However, rarely:
- Nausea
- Brief loss of balance
such side effects may occur. These side effects are temporary and tend to decrease as the treatment continues. After treatment, the symptoms of dizziness completely disappear.
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What Precautions Should Be Taken After the Barbecue Maneuver?
After the Barbecue Maneuver, it is recommended that patients take certain precautions. First, avoid sudden movements, especially toward the side that was treated. Such movements can cause the crystals in your ear to shift again, potentially leading to a recurrence of symptoms. During the post-treatment period, be sure to move your head slowly and in a controlled manner.
- During the first week following the treatment, try out the positions that trigger dizziness.
- It is important to be in a safe environment during this time, so that the risk of falling is minimized.
Although the Barbecue Maneuver yields successful results, there is a possibility of BPPV recurrence. Even months or years after the treatment, this condition may recur. This is not due to the maneuver itself, but rather to the nature of BPPV and utricular degeneration. While the treatment generally produces positive results within a few sessions, in some cases additional treatments or alternative methods may be necessary.
