Anatomy of the Vestibular System
The two inner ear balance organs (one for each ear) send information about head movements to the balance centre in the brain. This information is essential for the maintenance of balance. If either balance organ sends incorrect information to the brain the result is dizziness and imbalance. This in turn can cause nausea and vomiting, all of which can be quite distressing.
This can be improved by practising vestibular rehabilitation exercises. These are visual and balance exercises aimed at compensating for the uneven messages the brain receives. It can sometimes take months to correct but you do not need to attend frequently during this time.
Alternatively, in the condition BBPV, there is a build up of crystals in the balance organs causing problems and this can be resolved in one or two treatments by using repositioning techniques, most commonly the Epley Manoeuvre.