According to a recent survey, vertigo disrupts the daily activities of nearly 80% of those who experience it.
It is not simply a headache or a migraine — vertigo is a sensation of circular motion of self or surroundings; you may experience unsteadiness and loss of balance caused by the movement of crystals in an organ in your ear called the vestibular labyrinth. These crystals are responsible for your sense of gravity, and if they become dislocated in the canal, you can experience mild to severe dizziness, nausea, and even vomiting.
Our therapist is a certified vestibular specialist. We’d like to share these tips with you to help you keep your vertigo at bay until you are able to seek medical attention. If you experience vertigo regularly and would like to begin treatment, call us to schedule an appointment at (908)-293-8636. We are also happy to answer any questions you may have.
TIP #1: Avoid sleeping on the side that is responsible for your dizziness.
See if you can determine which side of your head is causing the issue. If you choose to sleep on your side, choose the side that is NOT symptomatic.
TIP #2: Pile 2-3 pillows under your head when sleeping
Keep your head and neck raised over night by sleeping on two or three pillows. This will prevent your neck from going into extension, which can exacerbate your symptoms.
TIP #3: Do not stand up immediately when getting out of bed
When you first wake up in the morning, sit on the side of your bed for a few moments to regain your balance instead of standing immediately. Change of body position prompts the movement of crystals which makes your symptoms worse temporarily.
TIP #4: Do not lift your head up when drinking
Rather than tilting your head up to drink a glass of water, use a straw instead. The goal is to limit movement of your head in order to prevent dizziness.
TIP #5: Use your entire body to turn when walking
When walking, be sure to move your entire body when you turning. Moving just your head could prompt dizziness.
