Vertigo meaning in medical
Hem / Hälsa & Välmående / Vertigo meaning in medical
Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 167.
Kerber KA, Baloh RW. Neuro-otology: diagnosis and management of neuro-otoligical disorders.
| Do's | Don't |
| Do seek medical advice: If you experience persistent or severe vertigo, consult a healthcare professional. | Don't ignore symptoms: Ignoring vertigo could lead to further complications or underlying health issues. |
| Do stay hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms, so ensure adequate fluid intake. | Don't make sudden head movements: Abrupt movements can trigger or worsen vertigo. |
| Do practice vestibular exercises: Certain exercises can help improve balance and reduce vertigo symptoms.
As we grow older, our body's ability to maintain equilibrium may decline, making us more susceptible to experiencing episodes of dizziness and imbalance. It may be associated with nausea, vomiting and ringing in one or both ears (tinnitus). Diagnosing vertigoYour doctor will diagnose vertigo based on your description of what you are feeling. While the symptoms of vertigo can be distressing and disruptive, there are treatment options available that can help manage this condition effectively. Consult a physical therapist for guidance. | Don't drive or operate heavy machinery: Avoid activities that require focus and coordination if you're experiencing severe vertigo. |
| Do use assistive devices: If necessary, use walking aids or handrails to prevent falls during dizzy spells. | Don't smoke or consume excessive caffeine/alcohol: These can worsen vertigo symptoms. |
| Do get plenty of rest: Fatigue can worsen vertigo, so ensure adequate sleep and rest. | Don't skip meals: Maintain a regular eating schedule to prevent low blood sugar, which can trigger vertigo. |
| Do manage stress: Stress can exacerbate vertigo, so practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga. | Don't self-diagnose and treat: Seek professional medical advice before starting any treatment regimen. |
| Do use prescribed medications as directed: Follow your doctor's instructions if medication is prescribed to manage vertigo. | Don't try experimental treatments without medical supervision: Unproven remedies may be ineffective or even harmful. |
If you suspect you or someone else is experiencing Vertigo, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or consult with a Neurologist.
Vertigo-associated disorders
Vertigo is a sensation of motion or spinning that is often described as dizziness.
Vertigo is not the same as being lightheaded.
Vertigo can be divided into two major categories, peripheral vertigo and central vertigo.
Peripheral vertigo, which is much more common, includes benign positional vertigo, labyrinthitis and M'nière's disease. It occurs due to abnormal activity in the brain's vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation.
When something disrupts the normal functioning of the vestibular system, such as an infection, injury, or certain medical conditions, it can lead to vertigo. Consulting with a healthcare professional or physical therapist experienced in treating vertigo can provide guidance on appropriate exercises for individual needs. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds.
Bradley's and Daroff's Neurology in Clinical Practice. You'll be taught exercises to restore your sense of balance. Medications are also commonly prescribed to alleviate vertigo symptoms. Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet can impact overall health and potentially disrupt the body's equilibrium.
These tests help tell the difference between central and peripheral vertigo.
The cause of any brain disorder causing vertigo should be identified and treated when possible.
To help resolve symptoms of benign positional vertigo, the provider may perform the Epley maneuver on you. Because vertigo can be associated with an intense sense of imbalance, it is important to avoid situations in which a fall could cause significant harm, like climbing a ladder or working on a slanted roof.
Treating vertigo
Your doctor may begin treatment by recommending bed rest or prescribing medications that suppress the activity of the inner ear, such as meclizine (Antivert, Bonine and other brand names), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or promethazine (Phenergan); anticholinergic medications such as scopolamine (Transderm-Sco); or a tranquilizer, such as diazepam (Valium).
In addition to lifestyle changes, there are specific exercises that can help strengthen the vestibular system and improve balance. This type of migraine is characterized by severe headaches accompanied by episodes of dizziness or spinning sensations.