Ever feel like your head is spinning, well you are not the only one whose is suffering from this. Vertigo is actually a very common condition, especially among seniors. If you are someone who deals with vertigo then you know that it is more just than an annoyance, but that it can actually interfere with your daily activities.

Vertigo can be very frustrating, but it can be treated once its cause has been discovered. Here are four things to know about this condition and what you can do to find relief.

What is vertigo?

Vertigo is a feeling that is typically described as the world spinning around you. If you are experiencing vertigo, then you may feel a false sense that you are moving or spinning. These dizzy spells will typically get worse with movement and can be accompanied by nausea.

So What causes vertigo?

There are several factors that can cause vertigo, including an inner ear infection and an inner ear disorder called Meniere’s disease. It isn’t common for it to be caused by an injury, ear damage, headaches, or brain problems. The most common cause, especially among older adults, is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV. With BPPV, calcium particles in the inner ear can come loose and clump up in the inner ear canals and impair your balance.

How is it Vertigo Treated?

Treatments for vertigo are dependent on what is causing it. Antibiotics may be necessary if you are experiencing an infection, or diuretics for Meniere’s disease to reduce any fluid buildup. Surgery or physical therapy can also improve the condition. For the most common cause, BPPV, then your doctor can teach you some maneuvers to help move the calcium crystals out of the ear canal and provide you some relief from vertigo. While these maneuvers can be effective, they aren’t immediate. Sadly it may take several times before the vertigo goes away. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the best course of treatment based on what is causing your vertigo.

Is dizziness always vertigo?

Vertigo is a very common cause of dizziness, especially in seniors. However, it should be noted that not all dizziness is vertigo. Dizziness can be caused by medications that a person is taking, such as high blood pressure medication. If your blood pressure is too low, then it can make you dizzy if you stood up too quickly. Other medications can cause damage to the inner ear and cause hearing loss and dizziness. It is important to talk to your doctor about all of your symptoms to ensure the proper diagnosis and treatment decisions are made.

Dizziness isn’t easy to to live with if and can make it very hard for you to perform your daily tasks. Whether it is from vertigo, medications, or another underlying condition, it is important to visit your doctor and get to the bottom of your symptoms.

Contact We Care Neuro today if you are having vertigo, dizziness, ringing in the ears, etc.! Dr. Dhrupad Joshi is qualified to accurately diagnose dizziness, imbalance, or vertigo, allowing you to seek effective treatment.