Caloric vertigo can be caused by what type of condition?

Caloric vertigo occurs when there is a disturbance in the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. This type of vertigo is specifically linked to the effect that temperature changes in the water have on the inner ear, particularly when water enters the ear canal. When water of varying temperatures is introduced into the ear, it creates a temperature gradient that stimulates the vestibular system, potentially leading to dizziness or vertigo.

This phenomenon is commonly utilized during vestibular testing, known as caloric testing, to evaluate the function of the vestibular apparatus in the inner ear. As the temperature of the water affects the density of the endolymph fluid in the semicircular canal, it causes an imbalance in the signals sent to the brain. Hence, introducing water into the ear canal is directly associated with the onset of caloric vertigo, making it the most relevant option regarding the cause of this condition.