Vertigo: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches

Vertigo is more than just a dizzy spell; it’s a disorienting condition that can significantly impact your daily life. If you’ve ever felt like the world was spinning uncontrollably, you’ve likely experienced vertigo. While it’s a common symptom rather than a disease itself, vertigo can stem from a variety of underlying causes, affecting people of all ages. From brief moments of imbalance to persistent dizziness, it can hinder your ability to work, socialize, and even perform basic tasks. 

Thankfully, there are effective treatments and natural approaches to managing vertigo. This comprehensive guide will explore the symptoms, causes, treatments, and how natural remedies like essential oils can provide relief.

What is Vertigo and how does it affect you?

Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning, tilting, or swaying. It’s often accompanied by dizziness, nausea, and difficulty maintaining balance. Unlike general dizziness, vertigo has a specific feeling of movement, even when you’re standing still. Vertigo can result from problems in the inner ear, brain, or sensory nerve pathways. While it’s not life-threatening, it can be disruptive and debilitating, especially when episodes occur frequently. Addressing the root cause is crucial for effective management and long-term relief. Understanding the different types and symptoms of vertigo can help you take the first step toward recovery.

Types of vertigo

Peripheral vertigo

Peripheral vertigo is the most common type and stems from issues in the inner ear. This part of your ear plays a vital role in maintaining balance. Problems like inflammation, infection, or calcium deposits can disrupt its function. The result is often a sudden onset of spinning sensations, triggered by specific head movements. Peripheral vertigo is typically less severe than central vertigo but can still be incredibly distressing. Thankfully, treatments such as medications and physical therapy often provide relief.

Central vertigo

Central vertigo originates from problems in the brain, particularly the cerebellum or brainstem. These areas process signals related to balance and coordination. Unlike peripheral vertigo, central vertigo tends to develop more gradually and is often accompanied by other neurological symptoms like double vision or difficulty swallowing. Because it’s linked to more serious conditions such as strokes or brain injuries, central vertigo requires immediate medical attention.

Signs and symptoms of vertigo: When to seek help?

Vertigo symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause but generally include a sensation of spinning or whirling. You might also experience nausea, vomiting, headaches, or a ringing sensation in your ears (tinnitus). Difficulty focusing your eyes, sweating, and a feeling of fullness in the ear are other common symptoms. Episodes can last from a few seconds to several hours, with some individuals experiencing lingering dizziness for days. Identifying these symptoms early is key to managing vertigo effectively.

What causes vertigo in men and women?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV is caused by tiny calcium crystals that become dislodged in the inner ear. This condition is triggered by sudden head movements, such as looking up or turning quickly. Although not dangerous, BPPV can cause brief but intense episodes of vertigo.

Ménière’s disease

This condition involves excessive fluid buildup in the inner ear, leading to vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Ménière’s disease often occurs in cycles, with symptoms coming and going unpredictably.

Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis

Both conditions result from inflammation or infection of the inner ear, often due to a viral infection. They can cause sudden, severe vertigo that may last for days, along with nausea and balance issues.

Cogan syndrome

Cogan syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the eyes and inner ears. It can lead to vertigo, hearing loss, and vision problems, often requiring specialized treatment.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome

This condition occurs when the varicella-zoster virus reactivates in the facial nerve, causing facial paralysis and vertigo. It’s a serious condition that needs prompt medical care.

Acoustic neuroma

Acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that develops on the nerve connecting the ear to the brain. It can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and balance problems, often requiring surgical removal.

Central vertigo may be caused by:

Tissue damage

Injuries to the brainstem or cerebellum can lead to vertigo. Such damage might occur due to trauma, infection, or lack of oxygen to the brain.

Vertebrobasilar insufficiency

This condition involves reduced blood flow to the back of the brain, often causing vertigo alongside other symptoms like fainting or vision loss.

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system. Vertigo is a common symptom during flare-ups of the disease.

Vestibular migraine

People with vestibular migraines often experience episodes of vertigo alongside migraine headaches. Managing migraines can help alleviate vertigo symptoms.

Psychological disorders

Anxiety and panic disorders can sometimes mimic or exacerbate vertigo symptoms. Treating the underlying psychological issue often reduces vertigo episodes.

Best practices for diagnosing vertigo

Medical history

Doctors typically start by taking a comprehensive medical history to understand the onset, duration, and nature of your symptoms. They may ask about triggers, such as head movements or stress, and any associated issues like hearing loss or nausea. Understanding your past medical conditions and medication use can also help identify underlying causes of vertigo.

Physical examination

A physical exam is conducted to evaluate your balance, coordination, and gait. Doctors may perform simple tests to observe how well your body responds to positional changes. Eye movement observation, such as looking for nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movements), is often a key part of the assessment.

Imaging tests

Advanced imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, may be necessary if a central cause of vertigo is suspected. These tests can detect abnormalities in the brain, blood vessels, or inner ear structures. They are especially helpful in ruling out serious conditions like stroke or tumours.

Hearing tests

Audiometric evaluations, like pure-tone audiometry or tympanometry, can help detect hearing loss or middle ear dysfunction. Since many inner ear disorders, such as Meniere’s disease, are associated with vertigo, hearing tests are a crucial diagnostic tool. Identifying any auditory issues helps narrow down the potential cause of vertigo.

Positional tests

The Dix-Hallpike test is a widely used positional test that helps diagnose benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). During this test, a doctor moves your head into specific positions and observes your eye movements for signs of nystagmus. This simple procedure provides quick and reliable results for identifying BPPV.

How long does it take for vertigo to go away?

The duration of vertigo episodes varies widely. Some people experience brief episodes lasting only a few seconds, while others endure symptoms for hours or even days. In cases like BPPV, vertigo may resolve within weeks with proper treatment. Chronic conditions like Ménière’s disease may cause recurring episodes over several months or years. Seeking medical advice early and following a tailored treatment plan can significantly shorten recovery time.

Things to avoid when experiencing vertigo

Sudden movements

Quick or abrupt head movements can easily trigger or intensify vertigo symptoms. To avoid unnecessary discomfort, move slowly and deliberately, especially when changing positions, such as standing up or turning your head. This cautious approach can help prevent dizziness and improve balance.

Excessive caffeine and alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol are known to affect the vestibular system in your inner ear, potentially worsening vertigo symptoms. These substances can lead to dehydration or alter fluid balance in the ear, exacerbating dizziness. Reducing or eliminating their intake can help you better manage your condition.

Dehydration

Dehydration can lead to dizziness and worsen vertigo symptoms. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day to keep your body and inner ear functioning properly. Staying hydrated can also prevent the fatigue and weakness that sometimes accompany vertigo.

Bright screens

Prolonged exposure to bright or flickering screens can aggravate vertigo by overwhelming your visual and vestibular systems. Limit your screen time, adjust brightness levels, and take frequent breaks to reduce strain. Opting for dim lighting can also help ease symptoms and promote comfort.

High-sodium foods

High-sodium diets can cause fluid retention in the inner ear, which is a common trigger for vertigo in conditions like Ménière’s disease. Avoid salty snacks, processed foods, and excessive table salt to maintain fluid balance. A low-sodium diet can reduce episodes of dizziness and help you regain control over symptoms.

Vertigo cures and treatments for optimal recovery

Medications

Doctors may prescribe medications like antihistamines, anti-nausea drugs, or benzodiazepines to relieve vertigo symptoms. These drugs can help manage dizziness, nausea, and related discomfort, providing short-term relief. However, medications are typically used as a temporary measure and are most effective when combined with other treatments.

Physical therapy

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to retrain your balance system. It includes exercises that improve coordination, reduce dizziness, and build stability. VRT is particularly effective for treating peripheral vertigo, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis.

Surgery

In severe or persistent cases of vertigo caused by structural abnormalities or tumours, surgery may be necessary. Procedures are highly specific and depend on the underlying cause, such as removing a tumour or repairing inner ear damage. While surgery is typically a last resort, it can provide relief for individuals who don’t respond to other treatments.

Natural solutions for vertigo relief

Herbal medicinals

Herbs like ginger and ginkgo biloba are natural remedies that have been used for centuries to manage vertigo. Ginger can help alleviate nausea and improve blood circulation, reducing dizziness. Ginkgo biloba improves blood flow to the brain and inner ear, supporting better balance and reducing vertigo episodes.

Yoga and Tai Chi

Yoga and Tai Chi are gentle practices that improve balance, posture, and overall relaxation, making them effective for managing vertigo. Simple poses like the tree pose or controlled breathing exercises can help stabilize your body and reduce stress. These practices also improve your mind-body connection, which is beneficial for maintaining equilibrium.

Essential oils 

Essential oils can alleviate vertigo symptoms, including:

• Ginger: Manipulates prostaglandins, which can help reduce nausea and dizziness.

• Lavender: Induces a state of relaxation to help alleviate vertigo symptoms.

• Peppermint: Has anti-nausea and circulation-boosting properties to reduce vertigo.

• Cypress: Improves blood flow to reduce the feeling of dizziness.

LaCura’s blends, LaCura 4U and LaCura Rub, are specially formulated to treat vertigo naturally. These blends combine organic, vegan, and pure ingredients to target inner ear imbalances. Designed for ingestion, they provide systemic relief and can help restore balance over time. Incorporating these oils into your routine is a safe, effective way to manage vertigo naturally.

Conclusion

Living with vertigo doesn’t have to mean living in discomfort. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments can empower you to take control of your health. From medications and physical therapy to natural remedies like yoga and essential oils, there are plenty of options to help you find balance. With LaCura’s personalized essential oils, you’re not just managing symptoms—you’re addressing them naturally and effectively. Take the first step toward relief and reclaim your stability today.