In our ear, more specifically in a structure called the vestibule, are calcium carbonate crystals called otoliths. Their role? To help the body detect movement and maintain balance. They work in conjunction with sensory hairs, much like position sensors.
But sometimes, these crystals move to places they shouldn’t. As a result, the brain receives conflicting information, and you feel like the room is spinning when everything is actually still. This is called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (or BPPV).
Why do these crystals move?
Several factors can contribute to this imbalance: