Dizziness can be attributed to a multitude of causes: blood sugar imbalances, high/low blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease, reaction to medication, allergies and sensitivities, toxic overload, even misalignment in the neck – particularly the C-1 vertebrae, (click here for more information: Atlas Subluxation Complex). When other causes have been ruled out, it is very possible that the problem is being caused by a problem in the inner ear. Two common problems associated with the inner ear are discussed here.

BPPV (Benign Posterior Positional Vertigo)

The sensation of spinning and whirling that occurs when the head is suddenly turned or moved can be caused by crystal particles floating in the inner ear canal that have become displaced. They can be repositioned through a maneuvering exercise - the head is moved into specific positions that will reposition the crystals - and balance is then restored. The most well-known and successful of these techniques is the Epley Maneuver, developed by Dr. John Epley (ENT) of Portland, Oregon. This maneuver is best performed by a trained therapist or doctor, but can be self-administered. Because it is essential for this exercise to be done properly, I have not provided instructions here. But do ask your doctor about it if you think BPPV may be the cause of your dizziness.

MENIERE’S DISEASE

Anyone who has suffered with inner ear problems that cause dizziness and/or vertigo knows how difficult it can be to live with. Meniere’s Disease is an inner ear disorder with no known cause and no known cure.

Symptoms include:
Vertigo (spinning or whirling sensation that causes balance problems)
Problems with Hearing
Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, whistling or roaring noises in the ear)
Feeling of pressure or fullness

It is believed that Meniere’s is triggered by a fluid buildup in the inner ear, but what causes that build-up is not yet understood. One possibility is imbalance in the body brought on by allergies – when the body releases histamines in response to what is perceived as a harmful substance entering the body, this can create inflammation, which may lead to other irregularities like fluid build-up. (see Allergies & Sensitivities) Hormone imbalance, or any cause of fluid retention can also be factors.

I highly recommend you check out the Lipoflavinoid Supplement, which I believe has been very helpful in controlling my symptoms. This supplement was created by an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor more than 40 years ago to relieve the symptoms of Meniere’s…it is available at some major pharmacy chains, including CVS. You can get more information from the distributor, DSE Healthcare Solutions at www.dsehealth.com, 1-800-331-0221. Tip: Before taking you may want to rinse off the tablet for 30 seconds under warm water as it has a coating that contains food coloring, not something I would normally recommend. I was told by the company’s VP that this will not affect the efficacy or quality of it. Another great product to try is Vertigoheel, also known as Cocculus Compositum, from Heel.Inc. More information can be found at My Favorites under Recommended.

If nothing else seems to be helping your dizziness, I would suggest you talk with your physician to see if vestibular physical therapy might be helpful…there are specially trained physical therapists who can work with you to help retrain the brain and body to better cope with the challenges brought about by inner area disease.

You may also want to read more about Meditation and Visualization techniques which can be very helpful in overcoming the debilitating effects of this, and other illnesses.