Health: Growing Number of People Suffering With Vertigo

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A growing number of people are suffering with vertigo, feeling dizzy. 3 On Your Side Health Reporter Stephanie Stahl says doctors aren't sure why.

Francesca DelRio says she felt as though the world was spinning all around her.

"I just felt I could not live a normal life anymore," said Francesca. She was dizzy. Her head was spinning. She was nauseous, and she had no idea why.

"I thought it was my blood pressure or I thought it could be my heart," said Francesca. She was actually suffering from Vertigo.

"Anybody whose had too much alcohol and has felt their bed spinning that's the symptoms that these patients go through," said Dr. Stacey Silvers, an ENT Specialist.

Doctors say vertigo is usually related to an inner ear problem, that can be detected with a special test.

"A virus can cause it, which can cause inflammation of the balance nerve and calcium crystals that can sort of get stuck in one of the inner canals in the inner ear," said Dr. Silvers.

It's the most common reason for vertigo, those dislodged crystals can impede fluid in the inner ear canal.

"If that fluid is slow to move, which is pretty much how the inner ear canals work, then you can be dizzy in one position or another," said Dr. Silvers.

Despite the debilitating symptoms, Dr. Silvers says treatment is relatively easy.

"Some simple balance exercises to get that crystal out of the canal and strengthen the inner ear," said Dr. Silvers.

Exercises that include turning the head from side to side, at varying degrees and speed, for several minutes.

"Two weeks and most patients have complete resolution," said Dr. Silvers.

Doctors say medications can also ease symptoms. Vertigo can be triggered by stress, having a cold, or even a minor injury. If not diagnosed and treated it can last for hours, days, even years.

RELATED LINK: Vertigo Information- http://www.nlm.nih.gov