When I started feeling dizzy my first step was to try to understand what is causing it. Unveiling the Causes and Solutions for Dizziness is complex. There is no clear answer that explains dizziness.
Understanding the vestibular system
It’s made up of several parts:
- Inner ear, the semicircular canals, and the vestibular nerve.
- The inner ear is made up of the cochlea, responsible for hearing
- The vestibular labyrinth, responsible for balance.
- The vestibular labyrinth is made up of three semicircular canals and two otolith organs.
- The semicircular canals are filled with fluid and contain hair cells that detect movement and changes in head position.
- The otolith organs contain crystals that respond to gravity and linear head movements.
How it works
When we move, the fluid in the semicircular canals and the movement of the crystals in the otolith organs stimulate the hair cells. Then send signals to the brain through the vestibular nerve. The brain uses these signals to determine our position and movement in space. This allow us to maintain our balance and spatial orientation.
Unveiling the Causes and Solutions for Dizziness
Dizziness happens when there is a problem with the vestibular system. This condition is having a debate between a variety of factors, including inner ear infections, head injuries, Meniere’s disease, and certain medications. Some experts are believing the cause has to do with the nervous system or high blood pressure, diabetes, or anemia.
Dizziness is a common symptom associated with migraines. The exact cause of this symptom is not fully understood. I would like to know why this happened!
Vestibular Migraine Dizziness Theories
Here are the main theories that try to explain the cause of dizziness:
Theory #1: changes in blood flow and pressure in the brain. The intense headache pain associated with migraines can also cause the neck muscles to tense up.
Theory #2: changes in the inner ear. The inner ear is responsible for maintaining balance. Also changes these can cause problems with balance and spatial orientation, leading to dizziness.
Theory #3: changes in the brainstem or the trigeminal nerve, responsible for sensation in the face.
Theory #4: problems with the nervous system, such as anxiety and panic disorders. Suggesting an emotional component tied to migraine symptoms.
Unveiling the Dizziness Solutions
Regardless of what you choose to believe I think the most important aspect is to try to resolve the areas within your control.
Most relevant options:
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy: designed to help improve balance and reduce dizziness by retraining the brain to process signals from the vestibular system. I tried it but for me was not helpful, doesn’t mean it won’t for you.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to relieve neck and shoulder tension, which can contribute to dizziness. This is the part I am most excited about, vigorous exercise has helped me a great deal to relieve stress and tension.;
- Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, and avoiding triggers. I made significant life choices to improve this area. I resigned from my C-Suite job. After 25 years of building a successful career, a bold and courageous move as I decided to choose my health.
- Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique can help to relieve pain and reduce stress. I tried this for several months, the progress was very minimal but again everyone is different.
- Herbal supplements: Some herbal supplements such as ginger, feverfew, and butterbur are effective. Tried many, the one I saw the most impactful was feverfew.
- Yoga and Relaxation techniques: Yoga and relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, and meditation can help to reduce stress and tension. Look at my blog here.
Least relevant options
- Medication: Over-the-counter medications (i.e. ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin) are being used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Vestibular suppressant medication: used to reduce dizziness by blocking the signals from the inner ear to the brain. I actually refused to try this solution, I have personal preference which is to stay away as much as I can from chemicals.
For more motivation look me up on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.