Vertigo is the sensation that either you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when they’re not. This can make it hard to maintain balance and is often linked to issues in the inner ear. People experiencing vertigo may describe feeling dizzy or unsteady, and while dizziness can also mean lightheadedness, the two sensations have different causes and treatments. However, they can sometimes happen at the same time.
Vertigo can affect individuals of any age, but it is more commonly seen in adults over 20 and becomes especially concerning for those 65 and older due to the increased risk of complications. For older adults, vertigo and balance issues can significantly heighten the likelihood of falls, which are a leading cause of serious injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and in severe cases, long-term disability. These falls can also contribute to a loss of independence, as older individuals may develop a fear of falling, which can lead to reduced activity levels, social isolation, and diminished overall quality of life. The interplay between vertigo and age-related changes in vision, muscle strength, and reflexes further exacerbates the risk of instability in older adults.
Though rare in children, vertigo can still occur and may indicate underlying conditions such as vestibular migraines or ear infections. In adults, vertigo is a more prevalent and pressing issue, especially when it becomes chronic or recurrent. Conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis, or labyrinthitis can all contribute to episodes of dizziness and imbalance. Beyond the physical risks, vertigo also takes a toll on mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and reduced confidence in performing everyday activities.
The signs and symptoms of vertigo often revolve around a false sensation of spinning or movement, even when you’re still. This can make it difficult to maintain balance and may lead to feelings of unsteadiness or disorientation. People with vertigo frequently describe a sense of dizziness or a spinning sensation that can be triggered or worsened by moving their heads or changing positions. Nausea and vomiting are also common, particularly during more severe episodes. Some individuals may experience abnormal eye movements, known as nystagmus, which can accompany vertigo episodes.
Other symptoms associated with vertigo may include hearing issues such as ringing in the ears or temporary hearing loss, particularly if the vertigo is caused by inner ear problems. People may also feel pressure or fullness in the ears. In more severe cases, vertigo can cause difficulty concentrating or a general sense of fatigue. Symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause, with some individuals experiencing brief, occasional episodes, while others may endure persistent or recurring bouts that significantly impact daily life.
The causes of vertigo can vary widely from person to person and stem from different health conditions or factors. Migraines are a common trigger, as are certain medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and those used to treat cardiovascular conditions. Other possible causes include stroke, irregular heart rhythms, diabetes, and head injuries. Conditions like prolonged bed rest, shingles affecting the ear, or complications from ear surgery can also lead to vertigo. It may result from issues like fluid leakage in the ear, hyperventilation, or a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up.
Other contributing factors include muscle weakness, syphilis, and otosclerosis, which involves abnormal bone growth in the middle ear. In some cases, brain diseases, multiple sclerosis (MS), or a benign tumor known as acoustic neuroma can be underlying causes. With such a wide range of potential triggers, identifying the specific cause is essential for the proper treatment and management of vertigo.
Preventing vertigo involves adopting habits that reduce the risk of triggering symptoms and maintaining overall balance. Moving slowly and deliberately, especially when changing positions or turning your head, can help minimize the chance of dizziness. Staying well-hydrated is also essential, as dehydration can contribute to vertigo episodes. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices may prevent stress-induced dizziness. Additionally, sleeping with your head slightly elevated can reduce discomfort and help maintain balance while resting.
In some cases, incorporating specific exercises can also help prevent vertigo. Healthcare professionals may recommend vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which focuses on improving balance and reducing sensitivity to motion through exercises like controlled eye movements and head positioning techniques. If you start to feel dizzy, it’s important to sit down right away to prevent falls or injury and avoid bending over to pick up objects until the sensation passes. By taking these proactive steps, you can reduce the likelihood of vertigo episodes and better manage your symptoms.
Non-surgical
Non-surgical treatments for vertigo focus on symptom relief, improving balance, and addressing underlying causes without invasive procedures. Medications like vestibular suppressants (meclizine or diazepam), antihistamines, and anti-nausea drugs can alleviate dizziness and nausea. Diuretics, combined with a low-sodium diet, are often used for Ménière’s disease to reduce inner ear fluid buildup. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) helps retrain the brain to process signals from the inner ear through exercises targeting balance and gaze stabilization.
Lifestyle modifications like reducing caffeine, salt, and alcohol, staying hydrated, and managing stress through relaxation techniques also play a crucial role in managing vertigo symptoms. Additional options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for coping with anxiety caused by chronic vertigo and home remedies such as ginger tea or acupressure to reduce dizziness and nausea.
Surgical
Surgery may be an option for treating vertigo in cases where there is clear evidence of a problem in one inner ear, medical treatments have been unsuccessful, and the patient seeks a more permanent solution. Common surgical procedures include the endolymphatic shunt, retrolabyrinthine vestibular neurectomy, cochleovestibular neurectomy, and singular neurectomy. These surgeries are designed to address specific inner ear issues and aim to provide long-term relief from vertigo symptoms.
Certain vertigo-related conditions, such as Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuronitis, chronic labyrinthitis, and benign positional vertigo, can be effectively treated with surgery. Thanks to advancements in microsurgical techniques and the development of innovative procedures over the past two decades, many patients who previously thought they had to live with vertigo indefinitely can now find relief. Surgery offers hope and a definitive solution for individuals whose vertigo significantly impacts their quality of life.
Physical therapy can be an effective way to manage and improve vertigo symptoms. However, the type of exercises that work best will depend on the specific type of vertigo a person is experiencing. For example, certain maneuvers may be more suitable for vertigo caused by inner ear problems, while others might address balance or coordination issues. It’s important to note that not all exercises are appropriate for every type of vertigo, and performing the wrong movements could potentially worsen symptoms or delay recovery.
For this reason, it is crucial to have an accurate diagnosis before starting physical therapy or attempting exercises on your own. A physical therapist trained in treating vertigo can provide tailored exercises that target the root cause of your symptoms. These exercises often focus on retraining the brain and body to adapt to balance challenges or reducing sensitivity to motion.
For more information about vertigo treatment in Long Island, contact Hicksville Physical Therapy today.
