The sensation of vertigo is a symptom, not a disease. It’s the perception that you or your surroundings are whirling or moving. This sensation may be hardly perceptible or it may be so strong that it makes it difficult for you to maintain your equilibrium and carry out daily duties.
Vertigo or balance issues can result from a variety of causes, but hearing loss is well known to contribute to these issues. Balance issues, dizziness, and vertigo can all result from inner ear issues that can cause hearing loss. Hearing is not the only function of our ears.
Symptoms of Vertigo
Vertigo attacks might start out slowly and last only a few seconds or they can continue much longer. Living a normal life can be quite challenging if you suffer from severe vertigo because the symptoms may be persistent and continue for several days.
The main symptoms of vertigo include feeling sick or nauseous and losing your balance, making it difficult to walk or stand.
Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo is usually brought on by an issue with how the inner ear regulates balance, but it may also be brought on by issues with specific brain regions.
Some causes of vertigo may include:
- benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) – certain position or movement of the head can trigger vertigo
- Vestibular neuritis – this is caused by an inflammation of the vestibular nerve which is located in the inner ear and is responsible for transmitting messages to the part of the brain that controls balance
- Labyrinthitis – infection of the inner ear
- Migraines – moderate or severe headache that manifests as a throbbing pain on one side or a certain portion of the head
You can also experience other symptoms, such as ringing in your ears (tinnitus), fever, and or hearing loss, depending on the problems causing your vertigo.
Is vertigo caused by stress?
Emotional stress related to negative life events may cause vertigo, although studies about this are still ongoing. High levels of stress, worry, and depression may produce vertigo on their own or may exacerbate the symptoms of an underlying condition such as an inner ear disorder.
Vertigo Diagnosis
Some types of vertigo may get better on their own over time. However, some individuals—like those with Ménière’s disease—experience recurrent episodes over the course of many months or even years.
To identify the causes of vertigo, an otolaryngologist or audiologist will conduct a physical examination. The ear canal and eardrum will be checked using an otoscope. A patient’s eye movements may be checked through an examination that requires the patient to follow an object from Point A to Point B while using their eyes.
Vertigo Treatment
Some vertigo causes have particular therapies available. The Epley procedure, a sequence of easy head motions, is used to treat BPPV.
Prochlorperazine and some other antihistamines are effective in treating vertigo in its early stages in the majority of instances.
Self-care for Vertigo
Depending on your vertigo triggers, you might be able to manage some of the symptoms on your own. A doctor may suggest the following self-care methods for your vertigo:
- Perform simple exercises to help manage or prevent vertigo symptoms.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated on thick pillows.
- Avoid rushed movements when getting out of bed. If possible, try to sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes before standing up.
- Avoid bending down.
- Avoid overextending your neck to reach something.
- Avoid sudden head movements.
Norfolk Audiology Vertigo Treatment
Vertigo can be a debilitating condition if left untreated. Don’t wait for vertigo to affect your daily activities. Norfolk Audiology can diagnose, manage, and treat vertigo symptoms, especially if it is related to hearing loss and balance issues.
Our audiologists are trained to handle vertigo to help you enjoy life with confidence. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!