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StatPearls, LLC

  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Orientation, Spatial
  • Vertigo
  • Vestibular Function Tests
  • Vestibular Migraine

Central Vertigo

Central vertigo, characterized by a subjective sensation of motion despite physical stillness, poses diagnostic and management challenges. The sensation can manifest as spinning, swaying, tilting, or rocking. Central vertigo is distinguished from peripheral vertigo, which is caused by problems in the inner ear. Central vertigo is caused by dysfunction in the central vestibular system or its connections in the nervous system. The central vestibular system is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation, consisting of the vestibular nuclei in the brainstem, the cerebellum, and their connections in the nervous system. Dysfunction in any of these components can result in central vertigo. The differential diagnosis of central vertigo is broad and includes a range of neurological disorders. Some common causes of central vertigo include stroke, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, and vestibular migraine. The evaluation of central vertigo involves obtaining a detailed medical history, performing a thorough physical examination, and conducting diagnostic tests such as imaging studies and vestibular function tests. The management of central vertigo depends on the underlying cause. Treatment may include medications to control symptoms, physical therapy to improve balance and coordination, and surgical intervention in some cases. Prompt medical attention is crucial upon the manifestation of central vertigo symptoms to prevent complications and improve outcomes. This activity explains the distinction between peripheral and central vertigo and the differential diagnosis. Early recognition and treatment of central vertigo can improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life of affected individuals. Proper evaluation and management of this condition are outlined.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsNursingUp to 1.5 creditsPharmacyUp to 1.5 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABA — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1.5 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABOHNS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 8 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1.5 credits
  • MOC · Up to 1.5 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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