Inner ear “crystals” usually refer to calcium carbonate particles that move into the wrong part of the inner ear and cause Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) — brief spinning sensations when you change head position.
The good news: BPPV is very treatable.
👂 What Causes It?
Tiny crystals (otoconia) become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals, confusing your balance system.
Common triggers:
- Head injury
- Aging
- Inner ear infection
- Long bed rest
- Sometimes no clear cause
✅ How to Get Rid of Inner Ear Crystals
1️⃣ The Epley Maneuver (Most Effective)
The Epley maneuver helps guide the crystals back where they belong.
For right ear BPPV (most common):
- Sit upright on a bed.
- Turn your head 45° to the right.
- Quickly lie back with head slightly hanging off the edge.
- Stay 30–60 seconds.
- Turn head 90° to the left.
- Stay 30–60 seconds.
- Roll onto left side, nose toward floor.
- Sit up slowly.
🔁 Repeat 1–3 times daily until symptoms improve.
If unsure which ear is affected, a clinician can check.
2️⃣ See a Professional
An ENT doctor or physical therapist trained in vestibular therapy can:
- Confirm diagnosis
- Perform repositioning maneuvers correctly
- Use the Dix–Hallpike test to identify the affected canal
3️⃣ Brandt-Daroff Exercises (Home Option)
These are slower exercises done 2–3 times daily if symptoms persist.
🌿 How to Reduce Vertigo Symptoms
✔ Move Slowly
Avoid sudden head movements.
✔ Sleep Slightly Elevated
Use 2 pillows for a few nights.
✔ Stay Hydrated
✔ Limit Salt (if fluid-related dizziness)
✔ Manage Anxiety
Vertigo can trigger panic, which worsens symptoms.
🚨 When to See a Doctor Immediately
Seek urgent care if vertigo comes with:
- Weakness or numbness
- Slurred speech
- Double vision
- Severe headache
- Fainting
These could indicate stroke rather than BPPV.
⏳ How Long Does It Last?
- Many cases resolve in days to weeks.
- The Epley maneuver often works within 1–3 sessions.
- Recurrence is common but treatable.
If you’d like, tell me:
- How long you’ve had symptoms
- Which movements trigger it
- Your age
And I can guide you more specifically.