Earbuds Induced Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo?

Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of peripheral vertigo. BPPV is usually idiopathic but can also result from trauma, viral labyrinthitis, or Meniere’s disease. We present a case of BPPV caused by earbuds. Case Descripton: This is the case of a 43-year-old male, a health care management and emergency medicine specialist, with no history of inner- or middle ear disease, vertigo and dizziness, or other medical conditions. The subject began using earbuds while driving and during routine exercise. He reported suffering from nausea and temporary vertigo after head movements in the hours following the use of the earbuds. Physical exam findings during an acute episode of vertigo correlated to BPPV with positive Dix Hallpike, suggesting posterior semicircular canal BPPV in the right ear. The use of plug-ins was stopped. Results: As a result of stopping the use of earbuds, the episodes of dizziness, tinnitus, and tingling sensations in the ear completely resolved. Attempting to find a replacement, he used bone-conduction headphones and did not experience any subsequent symptoms. After 6 months of using bone-conduction headphones, he had not experienced any dizziness. Conclusion: We suggest that earbuds may induce benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Further research should evaluate the safety of such products.