Short spells of spinning when you roll over in bed
A vestibular therapist and an ear specialist on positional vertigo after a crash
After a crash, some people get a brief spinning spell when they roll in bed, lie down or look up. One possible cause is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV. In BPPV, tiny particles in the inner ear have slipped into one of its balance canals. A blow to the head can set it off. The spinning often passes within seconds instead of lasting all day. [1, 2]
Still, not every dizzy spell after a crash is BPPV. A concussion, medicines, changes in blood pressure and other problems can also throw off your balance. [1, 2]
Describe what sets it off and how long it lasts
Tell your doctor which head movement brings on the spinning and how long it lasts. Say whether your hearing or vision has changed. Mention nausea, falls, headaches and any injury to your neck or back. A trained clinician can use position tests to find which side and which canal are affected. The results help guide treatment. Hold off on any forceful home maneuver until a clinician clears your neck and other injuries for it. [1, 2]
Match the treatment to the diagnosis
For typical BPPV, a clinician may guide your head and body through a series of positions. These steps move the particles back where they belong. It’s called a repositioning maneuver. If your movement is limited, a vestibular (balance) therapist can adjust it for you. Let your team know if symptoms hang on or come back. Some people need the maneuver again, or a check for another cause of dizziness. [1, 2]
Stay safe until the spinning stops
Get help on the stairs. Don’t drive while a spell could affect your control of the car. Get emergency care if dizziness comes with a new, severe headache, trouble speaking or new weakness. Fainting or an inability to walk that doesn’t go away also needs emergency care. These symptoms call for a broader workup. [1, 2]
Questions about the dizziness
- Does my pattern fit BPPV? Which canal is involved?
- With my neck and back injuries, are position tests safe for me?
- What should I do if the spinning comes back?
Log each spinning spell
Write down the exact movement that sets off the spinning and how long each spell lasts. [1]
Sources and further reading
This content is educational and draws on balance therapy and ear care. Dizziness after a crash can come from several causes. Have a trained clinician check positional vertigo, especially if you might have a neck or back injury.
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