Paroxysmal means that the vertigo comes and goes. Positional just means that symptoms come from a change in head position. BPPV is fairly common, especially in women. Older adults have it more often.

Yes, vertigo frequently comes and goes in episodes that can last from a few seconds to several hours or even days. The most common form is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), where "crystals" in the inner ear become dislodged and trigger intense, short-lived spinning sensations when you move your head in specific ways. Other conditions like Ménière's disease or vestibular migraines can cause recurring bouts of dizziness accompanied by hearing changes or nausea. These episodes may vanish for months only to return without warning. While many instances are brief and caused by simple factors like dehydration or viral infections, recurring vertigo can significantly impact daily life and balance. It is always important to consult a healthcare professional to determine if the "coming and going" of these symptoms is related to a manageable inner ear issue or a more serious underlying condition involving the brain or central nervous system.