By: Ana Margarita Olar | Vigorbuddy.com
Vertigo is commonly known with symptoms of dizziness, nausea, and the feeling that your body is swirling around and your surrounding is turning around. The most common type is the BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) which is commonly caused by otolith crystals dislodged into the ear canal. So here are things that you can try at home when you experience vertigo:
Magic Maneuvers for Vertigo- this consists of assuming different body positions that can be done at home to treat BPPV. The changes in body positions aim to dislodge the calcium crystals from the ear canal which causes vertigo.
- Epley Maneuver- before doing this maneuver, you should first consult a physician in order to determine which ear is causing your vertigo. If this involves your left ear, assume the following positions:
Sit on the bed turn your head 45 degrees to the left and then lie down while still facing to the left with a pillow under your shoulder so that your neck is hyperextended for about 30 degrees. Hold this position for 30-60 seconds.
Then quickly turn your head to the right and hold the position for another 30 to 60 seconds.
Next turn your body on your right side and turn your head facing the bed. Stay in this position for 30 to 60 seconds before sitting up straight. Repeat this procedure 2- 3 times before sleeping. Do it on the reverse side when your right ear is affected.
- Semont maneuver- before trying this, you also need to determine which ear is affected.
If your left ear is affected, do the following:
Sit on the edge of the bed, turn your head 45 degrees to the right then quickly lie down on your left side for 30 seconds. While keeping your head up.
Quickly move to lie down on your right side and keep your head facing to the right so that you are looking down on the floor. Keep this position for 30 seconds.
Then sit up straight and look at the floor for thirty seconds. Repeat this cycle for 10-15 times a day. Do the reverse if the affected part is the left ear.
Deep breathing techniques.
When suffering from vertigo, count one to five while you exhale and another five seconds while you inhale.
Herbal healers
Aside from positioning, you can try these different herbs to calm down vertigo attacks:
- Ginger- you can chew a slice of ginger or in a form of ginger ale to control nausea that goes with vertigo. It is known to improve blood circulation thus, very effective for headache accompanying vertigo.
- Seeds and nuts- this includes almonds and pumpkin seeds which are also known to treat dizziness.
- Lemon-considered a natural remedy for vertigo. Squeeze the lemon into a solution of lukewarm water, black pepper and a pinch of salt. Mix well and drink.
Remember, these first aid remedies are for mild cases of vertigo only. If you experience other symptoms such as fever, severe headache, hearing loss, loss of vision, weakness of leg or arm, and numbness, seek medical assistance immediately.
