How to Get Rid of Inner Ear Crystals and Reduce Vertigo

If you experience brief episodes of spinning when you turn over in bed, sit up, bend down, or move your head, one possible cause is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). It happens when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become displaced and enter the semicircular canals, sending confusing movement signals to the brain.

The Epley Maneuver: A Common Treatment

For BPPV, the most commonly used treatment is the Epley maneuver, a series of controlled head and body movements designed to guide the displaced crystals back to an area of the inner ear where they no longer trigger vertigo. It often works after one or two treatments.

A healthcare professional can determine which ear is affected and teach you the correct version of the maneuver. Home versions are also used when BPPV has been properly identified.

What You Can Do to Reduce Symptoms

While recovering:

• Sit or lie down as soon as dizziness begins.
• Get out of bed slowly and sit on the edge for a moment before standing.
• Avoid sudden head movements that trigger spinning.
• Use good lighting when walking at night.
• Take extra care to prevent falls.
• Avoid driving while you are dizzy.

You may experience some dizziness during the Epley maneuver, and mild imbalance can sometimes remain for a short time afterward.

When to See a Doctor

Not every case of vertigo is caused by inner-ear crystals. See a healthcare professional if your vertigo is persistent, severe, repeatedly returning, or does not improve with appropriate treatment.

Seek urgent medical attention if vertigo occurs with symptoms such as a new severe headache, double vision or major vision problems, fever, or sudden hearing loss.

The Bottom Line

There is no need to “dissolve” the crystals with a special drink, supplement, or food. When BPPV is the cause, the goal is to reposition the crystals, most commonly with the Epley maneuver. Because the correct maneuver depends on which ear and inner-ear canal are affected, getting the diagnosis right is important.

Important: If you have neck or back problems, recent head/neck injury, or significant balance problems, speak with a healthcare professional before attempting an Epley maneuver yourself.