What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can be caused by various conditions affecting the inner ear, brain, or sensory nerve pathways. While it can be unsettling, there are several effective treatments available to help manage vertigo symptoms.

There are various treatments available for vertigo, ranging from physical therapy and medications to lifestyle changes. If you experience vertigo, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

What Treatments are Available for Vertigo?

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): One of the most common treatments for vertigo is vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT). This therapy involves exercises that help improve balance and reduce dizziness. A physical therapist will guide you through specific movements designed to retrain your brain to cope with the confusing signals causing your vertigo.

Medications: Medications can also be helpful in treating vertigo, especially if it’s related to an underlying condition. Medications can help reduce dizziness and nausea, prevent nausea and vomiting associated with vertigo and can also be used to calm the nervous system and relieve anxiety that can accompany vertigo.

Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: If vertigo is caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a common condition, your doctor may recommend canalith repositioning maneuvers. These techniques involve specific head and body movements that help move tiny calcium particles in your inner ear to a different location, alleviating the symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes: Making some lifestyle adjustments can also help manage vertigo. These include:

• Staying Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen symptoms, so drink plenty of water.
• Avoiding Triggers: Identify and avoid situations or movements that trigger your vertigo, such as sudden head movements or bright lights.
• Managing Stress: Stress can worsen vertigo, so practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga.

Surgery

In rare cases, when other treatments fail, surgery may be considered, especially if vertigo is caused by structural problems in the inner ear.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist