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If you think the world is spinning, but only you could feel it, then you are most likely having an episode of vertigo.
Vertigo, defined by WebMD as “dizziness that creates the false sense that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving,” can be a one-time affair, or it can be a symptom of an underlying condition.
Vertigo treatment will depend on the underlying cause, and you will need a doctor to diagnose whether it is vertigo and not dizziness. Treatment options may include head maneuvers, medication, diet, and even home remedies such as essential oil.
Conditions with the symptom of peripheral vertigo, which means problems with the inner ear, are
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), the most common type often triggered by head movements that displace calcium crystals called canaliths resulting in being off-balance
- Labyrinthitis
- Vestibular neuronitis
- Meniere’s Disease
Peripheral vertigo treatment
According to Healthline, there are several ways to determine if you have peripheral vertigo. “Your doctor may examine your ears to look for signs of infection, as well as to see if you can walk in a straight line to test your balance.”
Depending on your symptoms, they may also order hearing tests and MRI of the head and neck to rule out other diseases, the site adds.
Epley maneuver
The Epley maneuver is often prescribed for a patient with BBPV and can be done at home. Experts recommend four steps that you may follow. Let doctor will teach you how to do it:
- Start sitting up on a bed, with your legs in front of you flat on the bed. Turn your head 45 degrees to the left.
- Lie down, keeping your head turned to the left. Wait 30 seconds.
- Turn your head to the right 90 degrees until it’s facing 45 degrees to your right side. Wait 30 seconds.
- Roll over onto your right side before sitting up.
ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOWBrandt-Daroff exercises
Similar to Epley, this maneuver intended to move the crystals that are causing vertigo. Doctors recommend these four steps in Brandt Darrof exercises:
- Start by sitting on a flat surface, with your legs dangling as they would from a chair.
- Turn your head to the left side as far as possible, then lay your head and torso down on your right side. Your legs should not move. Stay here for at least 30 seconds.
- Sit up and turn your head back to the center position.
- Repeat the exercise on the opposite side by turning your head as far as possible to the right side, then laying down on your left side.
You may also check out demonstrations on YouTube, such as this one conducted at the University of Michigan Vestibular Testing Center.
Medication
Drugs used for vertigo are intended to relieve symptoms of nausea, according to WebMD. “If vertigo is caused by an infection or inflammation, antibiotics or steroids may reduce swelling and cure infection.”
Antihistamines are also sometimes prescribed to relieve symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. In addition, for Meniere’s disease, diuretics (water pills) may be prescribed to reduce pressure from fluid buildup.
Physical therapy
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is another treatment option for peripheral vertigo, according to the same Healthline site. Vestibular refers to the sensory information involved with controlling balance and eye movements.
For this treatment, a physical therapist will help improve balance “by helping your brain learn to compensate for inner ear problems.”
CONTINUE READING BELOWRecommended VideosCentral vertigo treatment
Central vertigo is caused by a problem in the brain, particularly in the brain stem or the back part of the brain (cerebellum). According to WebMD, this type may come without warning and may last for long periods.
“The episodes are generally much more intense than peripheral, and you may be unable to stand or walk without help.”
Underlying causes of central vertigo may be diseases that fall under this type include strokes and Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA), tumors, multiple sclerosis, and migraines.
Treatments under this type of vertigo are often symptom management, and this may include medicines for nausea and drugs that help lessen the sensation of movement.
Vertigo home remedy
There are some lifestyle changes and home remedies that one may apply to vertigo treatment or bring some relief. These can be helpful if the vertigo is recurring. However, these remedies may be temporary, and it is still best to have your vertigo checked with a doctor for long-term solutions.
Essential oil
Essential oils are non-drug alternatives to relieving the symptoms of vertigo. Among the popular ones are lavender, peppermint, ginger, lemon, and thyme that may be used for gentle massaging of the head and neck area or may be used as a scent to reduce symptoms like nausea and dizziness.
Gingko Biloba
Some studies have pointed to the efficacy of ginkgo Biloba extract in treating vertigo. It often comes in capsule and liquid form, but it is best to consult with your doctor about the dosage you will need to take.
ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOWAvoid stress
According to Healthline, some conditions that cause vertigo, including Meniere’s disease, can be triggered by stress. Of course, getting to the root of what’s causing your anxiety would be best, but you can start with activities known to lessen stress, such as meditation and breathing exercises.
Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep can lead to many discomforts, and vertigo may be one of them. On the other hand, getting a good night’s sleep or nap may keep you in a better balance.
Add vitamin D in your diet
A study suggests that lack of vitamin D can worsen symptoms for people that have BPPV. Good thing, vitamin D is found in many foods we eat, such as salmon, sardines, egg yolks, red meat, fortified milk, and liver.
Try These Head Exercises And Home Remedy For Vertigo Relief
Source: Progress Pinas
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