How to Help Get Rid of Vertigo Before It Becomes a Chronic Problem

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Vertigo is dizziness characterized by spinning or feeling unbalanced, as though one or one’s surroundings are in motion. Different from this disorienting experience, factors that can be tried are often associated with episodes of dizziness (Bronstein, 2000). 

The sensation of vertigo typically arises from issues related to the brain or inner ear, which play crucial roles in processing spatial information and maintaining equilibrium. In the inner ear, structures such as the vestibular system detect changes in head position and motion. When these structures are damaged or malfunctioning, they can lead to distorted signals sent to the brain about the body’s orientation relative to gravity that may cause symptoms, including a loss of balance with nausea and vomiting (Lurati, 2016).

Is Vertigo the Same as Dizziness?

Although “vertigo” and “dizziness” are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, they refer to distinct sensations and experiences. Dizziness is a broad term that includes a variety of symptoms, including feelings of weakness, lightheadedness, fainting, or a sense of unsteadiness. It can manifest as a general feeling of disorientation or imbalance. It may be associated with several factors, such as a quick and sudden change in blood pressure, dehydration, adverse effects of certain medications, visual disturbances, or anxiety (Muncie et al., 2017). 

In contrast, vertigo is a more specific condition characterized by a distinct sensation of spinning or the perception that one’s surroundings are moving. This disorienting experience can feel like one is being pulled in different directions or off balance, which can be distressing and sometimes debilitating. Understanding these differences is essential for accurately diagnosing and managing the underlying causes of these symptoms (Bhattacharyya et al., 2017).

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Diagnostic Tests for Vertigo

Vertigo can result from two main categories of disorders: peripheral and central. Each type has distinct clinical features that can be identified through a thorough history and physical examination.

To diagnose vertigo, your healthcare provider may conduct several tests, including:

• Fukuda-Unterberger test
• Romberg’s test
• Head impulse test
• Vestibular test battery, and 
• Imaging tests, which may involve CT scans or MRI

These assessments help determine the underlying cause of vertigo and guide appropriate treatment options (Brandt et al., 2013) (Strupp et al., 2015) (Bécares Martínez et al., 2019) (MacDougall et al., 2009).

Care and Treatment of Vertigo

Your healthcare provider tailors each specific treatment for vertigo to address and alleviate the underlying symptoms and help restore balance.

Standard treatment options include:

1. Repositioning Maneuvers: These are specialized physical movements designed to reposition inner ear crystals that may cause feelings of dizziness, particularly in cases like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). One well-known technique is the Epley maneuver, which guides the patient through specific head and body positions to help relieve vertigo (Epley, 1992).
2. Vertigo Medication: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to mitigate vertigo symptoms like motion sickness; these medications help control nausea associated with vertigo episodes (Hunter et al., 2022) (Berisavac et al., 2015).
3. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): This form of physical therapy focuses on specialized exercises designed to improve balance and reduce dizziness (Han et al., 2011). 
4. Surgery: For more severe cases, surgical options where other treatments have failed might be the only option for the patient (Corvera Behar & García de la Cruz, 2017).

A Holistic Approach to Treating Vertigo 

A study comparing homeopathic and conventional treatment for vertigo took place at 15 general practice centers in Germany from November 1995 to November 1996.

One hundred nineteen patients with vertigo were included, and 105 patients were analyzed as planned. Both homeopathic and conventional treatments reduce the frequency, duration, and intensity of vertigo attacks. The study found that the homeopathic remedy worked similarly to betahistine, a standard treatment for vertigo (Weiser et al., 1998).

In conclusion, the study showed that the homeopathic remedy and betahistine significantly reduced vertigo attacks over six weeks. Both treatments also significantly decreased specific vertigo symptoms.

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Supplements That May Help

1. Vitamin D

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common type of vertigo experienced when changing positions. A vitamin D deficiency may contribute to its occurrence. This study explores the relationship between recurrent BPPV attacks and vitamin D deficiency.

We conducted a case-control study with 40 patients diagnosed with posterior canal BPPV. We measured their serum 25(OH)D levels during the initial visit. The patients were divided into two groups: Group A, consisting of 20 patients, received vitamin D supplements and a repositioning maneuver. Group B, also with 20 patients, underwent only the repositioning maneuver. Recurrent BPPV episodes were significantly lower in group A, who received vitamin D supplements than in group B. Our findings indicate a connection between recurrent BPPV and low vitamin D levels (Abdelmaksoud et al., 2021).

2. Ginkgo Biloba

A total of 25 randomized controlled studies, including 1209 patients, were analyzed to assess the effects of Ginkgo biloba on various types of vertigo. The findings revealed that adding Ginkgo biloba to treatment regimens significantly improved symptoms of vertigo in patients diagnosed with vertebrobasilar artery insufficiency, those experiencing cervical vertigo, and individuals with vertigo of unspecified origin. However, the data did not support the beneficial effect of Ginkgo biloba on patients suffering from benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or Meniere’s disease (Gao et al., 2023).

Homeopathic Remedies  

Homeopathic medicines may help in managing vertigo accompanied by nausea and vomiting. They address the underlying causes, provide natural relief without side effects, and manage associated symptoms. It’s essential to consult a homeopathic doctor for a proper prescription based on individual symptoms and to avoid self-medication. 

Cocculus Indicus – Top Medicine

Cocculus Indicus is the best remedy for managing vomiting, whether accompanied by nausea or occurring independently, particularly in cases involving vertigo. It is especially effective when nausea occurs upon rising from a lying position. Additionally, this medicine is suitable for treating vertigo caused by a lack of sleep (Sharma, n.d.).

Conium

This medication is highly recommended for vertigo that occurs when turning the head. Vertigo may also happen while walking, often accompanied by a tendency to fall sideways. It can be triggered by standing up from sitting, lying, or turning in bed (Sharma, n.d.).

Tabacum

Tabacum is highly beneficial for vomiting accompanied by nausea. Vertigo often worsens when the eyes are opened, and looking upwards indoors provides relief. In situations where vertigo is present, it may be followed by vomiting from food. Interestingly, vomiting can alleviate vertigo, sometimes accompanied by a feeling of heaviness in the head (Sharma, n.d.).

Takeaway

Although “vertigo” and “dizziness” are often used interchangeably in conversation, it is essential to recognize that they refer to different experiences. Dizziness is a broad term, while vertigo is a condition marked by a vivid spinning sensation or the unsettling perception that one’s surroundings are in motion, even when not.

When considering a more holistic approach to addressing vertigo before it develops into a chronic issue, it has been suggested that individuals may be deficient in vitamin D. This deficiency may contribute to their symptoms; thus, incorporating a vitamin D supplement into one’s daily routine could provide significant benefits. 

In addition to vitamin D, recent studies on Ginkgo biloba have shown promising results; this natural remedy has been linked to notable improvements in vertigo symptoms for many patients. However, it is worth noting that the research did not find Ginkgo biloba effective for those suffering from benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, a specific subtype of this condition.

Furthermore, homeopathic remedies have also gained attention for their potential benefits in alleviating vertigo symptoms. Natural options such as Cocculus Indicus, Conium, and Tabacum have begun to show efficacy and are being considered by those looking for supportive treatments.

Ultimately, obtaining proper diagnostic tests is the key to effectively managing vertigo. These tests can help determine the most suitable treatment tailored to the patient’s needs, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling their unique symptoms.

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Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.

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