Vertigo and BalanceResources

Dietary Supplements

Nutrition plays a key role in getting a healthy supply of certain nutrients to the inner ear and vestibular system to protect inner ear cells and maintain circulation. It is difficult to get all of the essential vitamins and nutrients through your diet, so an easy solution is to buy a daily over-the-counter supplement. A multivitamin likely does not contain the essential ingredients so look for a specialized supplement with proven ingredients like, Ginkgo Biloba, B Complex, and Bioflavonoids. This treatment is exciting because it is relatively new and is much less expensive and low risk than going to the doctor to have them perform head movements or prescribe medications.

To learn more about the ingredients and science behind our Advanced Balance Support supplement go to our Science page.

Repositioning Maneuvers

There are several types of repositioning movements to treat vertigo symptoms. Each uses slightly different movements and angles to move crystal calcium deposits that may be loose out of the canal into an inner ear chamber where they will not cause vertigo. See your doctor to know which type is right for your and which ear has the problem. One of the most common at-home maneuvers is the Canalith Repositioning (CRP) or Epley maneuver:

1. Sit on the edge of your bed. Turn your head 45 degrees to the left (not as far as your left shoulder). Place a pillow under you so when you lie down, it rests between your shoulders rather than under your head.
2. Quickly lie down on your back, with your head on the bed (still at the 45-degree angle). The pillow should be under your shoulders. Wait 30 seconds (for any vertigo to stop).
3. Turn your head halfway (90 degrees) to the right without raising it. Wait 30 seconds.
4. Turn your head and body on its side to the right, so you're looking at the floor. Wait 30 seconds.
5. Slowly sit up, but remain on the bed a few minutes.
6. If the vertigo comes from your right ear, reverse these instructions. Sit on your bed, turn your head 45 degrees to the right, and so on.

Do these movements three times before going to bed each night, until you've gone 24 hours without dizziness. Unfortunately, these therapeutic maneuvers only work 35% of the time.

To learn more about the Canalith repositioning maneuvers you can explore the Mayo Clinic’s resources here.

Vestibular Rehabilitation

To help improve the vestibular system, physical therapy known as vestibular rehabilitation is employed. This therapy strengthens the system that sends signals to the brain about body movements relative to gravity. Vestibular rehab is a recommended treatment option for those who experience repeated episodes of vertigo. The therapy helps other senses to compensate for vertigo and reduce the symptoms.

Medication

Medication can be given to relieve symptoms associated with vertigo such as motion sickness or nausea. Inflammation or infection-induced vertigo can be treated with antibiotics or steroids to reduce swelling and cure the infection but not often. Diuretics or water pills may be prescribed for Meniere's disease to alleviate the pressure resulting from fluid buildup.

Surgery

In rare cases where vertigo is caused by a severe underlying problem like a tumor or injury to the brain or neck, surgery may be required. Treatment for the underlying problem can help alleviate vertigo symptoms.