[schema_article keywords=”how to treat dizziness, why am i dizzy, symptoms of dizziness, causes of dizziness, treatment for vertigo, vertigo, ” body=”Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is an effective method for reducing dizziness and vertigo. During this treatment, you’ll work with a physical therapist who will create an exercise-based program focused on improving balance, reducing dizziness and overcoming vertigo.”] There are many possible causes for dizziness and vertigo symptoms, including:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
Meniere’s disease
Ear infection
Multiple sclerosis
Concussion
Alcohol
Medication toxicity
Stroke
Viral meningitis
Once your doctor has determined the underlying cause of your dizziness/vertigo, you can begin treatment. Below are some of the most common dizziness treatments.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is an effective method for reducing dizziness and vertigo. During this treatment, you’ll work with a physical therapist who will create an exercise-based program focused on improving balance, reducing dizziness and overcoming vertigo.
Epley Maneuver
The Epley maneuver is effective for treating BPPV, a condition that causes dizziness due to calcium crystals becoming dislodged in the inner ear. During this treatment, your doctor will walk you through a series of body movements designed to move the crystals to a less sensitive area where they can be reabsorbed by the body.
Dietary Changes
Studies have shown that sodium, caffeine and alcohol intake can affect your balance. In fact, many have turned to a low-sodium diet to prevent dizziness caused by Meniere’s disease, a condition that causes episodes of hearing loss, dizziness and tinnitus. If you are experiencing dizziness, try to limit your intake of these substances.
Antihistamines
Allergic episodes cause many symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness and diarrhea, among others. If your dizziness is allergy-related, an antihistamine such as Benadryl may help.
Migraine Medications
One study published in 2018 in Otology & Neurotology found that medications that prevent migraines, including tricyclic antidepressants, can be effective in decreasing dizziness and vertigo.
Sedatives
Extreme anxiety can cause people to feel symptoms of dizziness and vertigo. According to the American College of Cardiology, sedatives such as Valium, Ativan and Xanax can reduce these symptoms by calming brain activity, thus reducing anxiety and related issues.
Diuretics
If you have Meniere’s disease, diuretics (also called water pills) may prevent buildup of endolymph fluid in the inner ear, which can cause dizziness.
Drink More Water
Dehydration is a major cause of dizziness, according to the Mayo Clinic. To prevent episodes of dizziness, drink at least 64 ounces of water a day, and try to avoid dehydrating substances like alcohol, salty foods and caffeine.
For more information or to talk to a doctor about treating your symptoms of dizziness and vertigo, call the experts at SH Audiology today.
