What Is A Central Vertigo

 Central vertigo is a clinical condition in which an individual experiences hallucinations of motion of their surroundings, or a sensation of spinning, while remaining still, as a result of dysfunction of the vestibular structures in the central nervous system (CNS). The patient complains typically of dizziness with hallucination or sense of spinning. This is different from the light-headed "dizziness" which is more commonly secondary to global impairment of cerebral perfusion.

What Causes Central Vertigo?

Central vertigo is caused by a disease or injury to the brain, such as:

Head injuries

Illness or infection

Multiple sclerosis

Migraines

Brain tumors

Strokes

Transient ischemic attacks 

What Other Symptoms Could I Have From Central Vertigo?

While episodes of peripheral vertigo tend to pass quickly, central vertigo often comes without warning and may last for long periods of time. The episodes are generally much more intense than peripheral, and you may be unable to stand or walk without help. Eye movement that you can't control happens in both types of vertigo. But in central vertigo this eye movement lasts longer and it does not go away when you're asked to focus on a fixed point.

The hearing problems that frequently happen in peripheral vertigo are rare with central vertigo. But other symptoms - like headaches, weakness, or trouble swallowing - are common with central vertigo.

How Is Central Vertigo Treated?

Finding out the root cause of the vertigo and treating it is the only way to manage central vertigo. If migraines are the cause, for instance, medication and reducing your stress may help.

For some ongoing conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and some tumors, treatment may consist of managing the symptoms. This may include medicines for nausea and drugs that help lessen the sensation of movement.