Stress Isn't the Only Cause of Recurrent Vertigo. Check Out the Triggers Here

Many people think vertigo is the same as ordinary dizziness, but the sensation can be much more disturbing. The head feels dizzy, vision seems to sway, and even standing or walking can be difficult. This condition can certainly hinder daily activities and cause discomfort.

Interestingly, vertigo isn't always caused by stress or fatigue, as people often think. There are many other causes that can trigger a relapse without you realizing it. Let's identify the contributing factors so you can prevent it early and stay active!

Causes of Recurrent Vertigo That You Should Know

Vertigo can recur at any time and is often triggered by seemingly trivial events. Identifying the cause is crucial to preventing attacks early. Here are some factors to watch out for:

1. Lack of sleep and irregular sleep patterns

Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining bodily balance. When you're sleep-deprived or have irregular sleep patterns, your nervous system can become disrupted, causing your body to lose balance, ultimately triggering vertigo.

2. Dehydration or Lack of Body Fluids

Lack of fluid intake can cause low blood pressure and disrupt blood flow to the brain. This can lead to dizziness and the spinning sensation characteristic of vertigo.

3. Sudden Change in Head Position

Sudden head movements, such as getting up too quickly or looking down quickly, can trigger vertigo, especially in those with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), one of the most common types of vertigo.

4. Disorders of the Inner Ear

The inner ear regulates the body's balance. When infection, inflammation, or fluid buildup occurs in this area, signals to the brain can be disrupted, causing vertigo to recur.

5. Consuming Certain Foods or Drinks

Certain foods and drinks, such as excessive caffeine, alcohol, high-salt foods, or those containing MSG, can affect fluid pressure in the inner ear. As a result, vertigo can occur or worsen.

6. Stress and Fatigue

Prolonged emotional stress or pressure can cause muscle tension and affect the nervous system. Combined with physical exhaustion, this can worsen vertigo symptoms or trigger them again.

7. Effects of Certain Drugs

Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, sedatives, or blood pressure medications, have side effects that can affect balance. If vertigo recurs frequently after taking medication, you should consult a doctor.

8. Other Medical Conditions

Vertigo can also be a symptom of certain medical conditions, such as migraines, anemia, low blood pressure, or nervous system disorders. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for more appropriate and effective treatment.

By understanding the various causes of recurring vertigo mentioned above, you can be more alert and start implementing simple preventative measures to maintain your body's balance and quality of life.

First Aid for Recurring Vertigo

When vertigo flares up, the spinning sensation can be so disturbing that it can even cause you to lose your balance. This condition is often accompanied by nausea, cold sweats, or even excessive anxiety. To help relieve vertigo, there are several first aid steps you can take to help stabilize your body and quickly relieve symptoms:

  1. Lie down
     The safest first step is to immediately lie down on a flat, comfortable surface. This position helps prevent you from falling and allows your body to regain its balance. Try to keep your head in a neutral position, not tilted too far back or down.
  2. Avoid Sudden Movements
     When vertigo flares up, changing body or head position too quickly can worsen the spinning sensation. Therefore, avoid getting up suddenly from a lying position or turning your head too quickly. Move your body slowly and carefully until symptoms subside.
  3. Close eyes
     To relieve vertigo, closing your eyes can help reduce the spinning sensation by reducing the amount of visual stimulation your brain receives. If necessary, you can also close your eyes and take deep breaths to calm yourself.
  4. Avoid Bright Light
     Bright light can worsen dizziness and discomfort. Try resting in a dim or dark room until symptoms subside. Also, avoid staring at a cell phone or television screen during a vertigo attack.
  5. Set Your Breathing Pattern
     Feelings of panic or anxiety during a vertigo attack can cause rapid, shallow breathing. Try to breathe slowly and deeply to relax your body. Regular breathing also helps increase oxygen to the brain and speed recovery.
  6. Drink Water
     Dehydration is a common trigger for vertigo, so it's important to ensure your body is adequately hydrated. Slowly drink a glass of water after symptoms improve slightly to help stabilize your condition.
  7. Take Medication If Prescribed by a Doctor
     If you have a history of vertigo and have been prescribed medication by your doctor, take it as directed. Medication is usually prescribed to relieve symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, or balance problems. Avoid taking medication without a prescription, as it can cause unwanted side effects.

Following the simple steps above, vertigo symptoms will usually gradually improve within minutes to hours. However, if vertigo occurs repeatedly or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as impaired vision, speech, or weakness, consult a doctor immediately for further treatment.

The Importance of Recognizing and Treating Vertigo Properly

Vertigo isn't just a simple headache, but a condition that can be triggered by a combination of factors, from lack of sleep, dehydration, changes in head position, to inner ear disorders. Because each person has different causes, it's important to understand your individual triggers for more effective prevention. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting enough rest, and regularly managing your fluid intake can help reduce the risk of vertigo recurrence.

However, if vertigo recurs frequently and is accompanied by impaired vision, speech, or balance, you should consult a doctor immediately. A medical examination is necessary to determine whether your vertigo is caused by a minor disorder or a symptom of a more serious condition, such as an ear infection, nerve disorder, or cerebral blood vessel problem. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can prevent further vertigo recurrences and continue your daily activities comfortably.

Article written by: