Vertigo When Lying Down
Why the room spins when you lie down—and how to fix it
What is vertigo when lying down?
Positional vertigo—the sensation of spinning triggered by lying down, rolling over, or looking up—is most commonly caused by BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo). This happens when tiny calcium crystals in your inner ear become dislodged and float into the semicircular canals, sending false signals to your brain about head movement.
Common Causes
BPPV (Most Common)
Dislodged calcium crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear cause brief but intense vertigo with position changes.
Head Injury
Concussion or head trauma can dislodge the crystals or damage the vestibular system.
Inner Ear Infection
Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis can trigger positional symptoms.
Age-Related Changes
The inner ear structures naturally degenerate with age, making BPPV more common after 50.
When to Seek Medical Attention
- Vertigo accompanied by hearing loss
- Vertigo lasting more than a minute per episode
- Severe headache with vertigo
- Numbness, weakness, or difficulty speaking
- Double vision or difficulty walking
- First episode of severe vertigo
How Exercises Help
BPPV is highly treatable with repositioning maneuvers like the Epley maneuver, which use gravity to move the displaced crystals back to their proper location. Success rates are 80-90% after just 1-3 treatments. Habituation exercises can also help reduce sensitivity to position changes.
Recovery Timeline
With proper repositioning maneuvers, most people experience immediate or same-day relief. About 80% are symptom-free after one treatment. Some residual unsteadiness may persist for 1-2 weeks as the brain recalibrates. BPPV can recur (30-50% within 5 years), but knowing the exercises means you can treat it yourself.
Recommended Exercises
Epley Maneuver
A sequence of head positions that moves crystals out of the affected canal. Most effective for posterior canal BPPV.
Brandt-Daroff Exercises
Home exercises that help habituate the brain to position changes and can help resolve BPPV.
Semont Maneuver
An alternative repositioning technique that can be effective when Epley doesn't work.
Guided exercises with progress tracking and a symptom-matched starting point
Tips for Managing Vertigo When Lying Down
Exercise Guides for This Symptom
Detailed protocols for the conditions that commonly cause vertigo when lying down
VOR Exercises for Post-Concussion
Evidence-based gaze stabilization for persistent post-concussion dizziness.
Primary TreatmentBalance Training for Post-Concussion
Progressive balance rehabilitation for safe return to activities.
Primary TreatmentEpley Maneuver for BPPV
Step-by-step canalith repositioning—95% effective for positional vertigo.
Primary TreatmentVOR Exercises for Vestibular Neuritis
Essential exercises for vestibular nerve inflammation recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I get dizzy when I lie down?
How do I know if it's BPPV or something else?
Can BPPV go away on its own?
Is positional vertigo dangerous?
Start Recovery for This Symptom
Download the app for guided vestibular exercises, symptom monitoring, and progress tracking that adapts to how you feel before and after each session.
Start recovery for vertigo when lying down
If this symptom is part of a bigger concussion or vestibular pattern, the app will help you start with the right exercise mix.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you're experiencing these symptoms, especially after a head injury, please consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.