Homeopathy Treatment and Medicine for Vertigo
Vertigo or dizziness is not a disease, rather it is a symptom of an underlying disease. The term vertigo refers to the sensation of spinning or whirling or lack of balance that occurs as a result of a disturbance in the equilibrium (balance) of the body. Some other commonly used terms for vertigo are dizziness, lightheadedness, faintness, and unsteadiness. In Hindi and many Indian languages, it is called chakkar (चक्कर)..
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Classification of Vertigo
There are two types of vertigo, such as:
- Subjective vertigo - This is mainly seen when the patient feels that he is moving/spinning
- Objective vertigo - This is mainly seen when the patient feels objects around him are moving or spinning
Some of the things that can worsen vertigo are moving the head, changing position, turning while lying down, etc. There may be certain other symptoms (nausea, vomiting, abnormal eye movements, etc.) associated with vertigo depending on the underlying disease.
Types of Vertigo
The brain (cerebellum) and inner ear help in maintaining equilibrium and balance in the body. There are two types of vertigo which are as follows:
- Peripheral vertigo - Peripheral vertigo results mainly due to inner ear issues. It occurs due to a problem in the inner ear which helps in maintaining a healthy balance. The inner ear forms the part of the vestibular system which helps in maintaining posture and balance.
- Central vertigo - Central vertigo is associated with problems related to the brain or cerebellum which helps in controlling the balance and posture of the body.
Causes of Vertigo (Dizziness):
Knowing the cause of vertigo can help eliminate the problem from its root. In some cases, the cause of vertigo may stay unknown. There are several causes of this health condition. The common causes of vertigo are as follows:
1. BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) is considered the most common. It occurs due to an inner ear vestibular nerve problem. The discomforts due to BPPV are commonly triggered by the slightest movement of the head, particularly when waking up in the morning.
2. Meniere's Disease
Meniere's Disease is commonly associated with an increase in air pressure in the ear causing tinnitus, recurrent episodes of vertigo, and partial hearing loss to some extent. Episodic vertigo is commonly observed in Meniere's Disease.
3. Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis
Vertigo can result due to disorders of the vestibular system (structures in the inner ear), vestibular nerve, brainstem, or cerebellum; for instance, vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis. This is commonly associated with inflammation of the nerve which connects the brain to the ear
4. Long-term medications and environmental conditions
Certain medications, such as antidepressants, and environmental conditions, such as strong sunlight or sudden loud noise, may also damage the structures of the inner ear or the nerves, thereby resulting in vertigo.
5. Addictions
Certain harmful addictions can lead to vertigo. Alcohol addiction can be the prominent cause of the condition. Also, addiction to smoking and narcotics can be the cause. Sudden withdrawal of alcohol or narcotics can also result in vertigo or fainting. Alcohol can induce vertigo in some people even when taken in small quantities.
6. Cardiovascular issues
Vertigo may also be associated with the causes of accelerated blood pressure, orthostatic hypotension, cardiovascular disorders, stroke, or other cardiac-related issues where there is a lack of oxygen supply to the brain and the heart.
7. Musculoskeletal problems
Musculoskeletal issues such as cervical spondylosis, head or neck injuries, and multiple sclerosis also result in vertigo.
8. Migraine headaches
Severe and chronic cases of migraines are associated with vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and fainting attacks.
9. Hormonal fluctuations
Hormonal fluctuations may cause vertigo which is commonly observed in females during menopause age. Vertigo resulting from hormonal fluctuations is associated with decreased levels of estrogen. It is also observed in adolescent girls, particularly during menstruation.
10. Diabetes and Hypoglycemia
Vertigo is associated with a sudden dip in blood sugar levels below 70 mg/dl. A lack of glucose may cause the brain cells to die.
11. Depletion in hydration levels
A lack of water consumption may also result in fatigue and dehydration which may result in vertigo.
12. Mental health issues
Vertigo may also result due to stress, anxiety, and panic attacks. Patients dealing with recurrent episodes of vertigo may suffer emotionally, physically, and psychologically. This may have a major impact on their mental health.
Treatment
Treatment of vertigo has to be directed toward treating the underlying cause of the condition. Cases with BPPV (the most common form of vertigo) and labyrinthitis respond very well to Homeopathic treatment. Also, vertigo due to migraine or trauma (to the head or neck) responds well to homeopathic treatment.
It must be noted that, often, patients panic due to symptoms of vertigo, and this may only worsen the condition of the patient. Hence, stress can be a trigger in increasing the already existing symptoms. Homeopathy can also help to alleviate the anxiety associated with vertigo.
Certain rehabilitation exercises also help in controlling the symptoms and returning to normalcy. In the case of drug-induced vertigo, the medicine in question has to be stopped after proper evaluation.
Homeopathic treatment for Vertigo:
Homeopathy is strongly recommended for Vertigo. As discussed above, homeopathic medication will help the patients get back to normalcy without having to bear any of the side effects of conventional medication.
It helps not only in controlling the intensity and frequency of the attacks of vertigo but also in alleviating the anxiety that is frequently associated with this condition. It improves the general immunity and vitality of the patient, apart from targeting the cause of vertigo. It helps boost the confidence of patients by promoting balanced mental health by eliminating the fear of vertigo.
Some of the commonly used homeopathic medicines for vertigo include Bryonia alba, Rhus Toxicodendron, Gelsemium, Phosphorus, Lycopodium clavatum, Arnica montana, Veratrum album, Conium maculatum, Staphysagria, Pulsatilla nigra, and more.
Here is the description of remedies indicated in cases of Vertigo:
1) Bryonia Alba:
Bryonia vertigo homeopathic medicine is helpful in cases of vertigo when it is accompanied by intense nausea and cold sweats. One experiences Vertigo upon sitting up and or moving especially turning the head or changing positions in bed. The vertigo is better by lying still and with rest. Vertigo is also accompanied by severe headaches; the pain is a bursting type that worsens with movement.
2) Rhus Toxicodendron:
The Rhus tox is indicated in cases when one feels giddy upon rising from bed and needs to hold onto something for support. Vertigo is accompanied by stiffness and pain in the neck especially after resting in the morning, and also experiences ringing or buzzing in the ears. Vertigo is experienced with the first motion in the morning after a period of rest and better with further activity of the body.
3) Gelsemium:
what is the best homeopathic medicine for vertigo Gelsemium is suitable in cases of Vertigo when accompanied by profound weakness and trembling in the legs. There is a sensation of heaviness in the head as if difficult to hold it up. Also one has a persistent feeling of drowsiness and a need to sleep with the Vertigo. It is indicated when Vertigo is associated with visual disturbances particularly double vision or difficulty focusing.
4) Phosphorous:
Phosphorous is indicated when vertigo is accompanied by nausea and this nausea is better with cold milk. The vertigo is worse during twilight hours, and the fading lights in the evening cause disorientation and giddiness. The one who needs Phosphorous is anxious and fearful of being alone during episodes of Vertigo. The episodes are worse by the approach of thunderstorms or changes in weather.
5) Lycopodium clavatum:
It is suitable in cases of Vertigo associated with digestive troubles like bloating, gases, and indigestion. The complaints are worse between 4 pm to 8 pm. One experiences Vertigo with hunger, there is temporary relief in Vertigo after eating especially with sweets or warm drinks.
6) Arnica Montana:
Arnica Montana is indicated for cases of Vertigo that develop after a head injury or trauma to the head, with the sensation of bruised or soreness in the head. The vertigo worsens with an attempt to stand up with the sensation as of the room is spinning.
7) Veratrum album:
Veratrum album is suitable in cases of Vertigo with cold profuse sweats and the patient feels faint. There is a significant drop in blood pressure causing the patient to feel weak and clammy. The vertigo is accompanied by nausea and severe vomiting. It is indicated when vertigo is caused by loss of fluids from the body.
8) Conium Maculatum:
Conium Maculatum homeopathy for vertigo in old age is suitable in cases when Vertigo happens after turning the head. There is a sensation as if the room is spinning and one has to keep their head still. It is indicated in elderly patients who experience dizziness with weakness and difficulty walking. Vertigo is associated with cognitive problems like difficulty in concentrating, confusion, and memory issues.
9) Staphysagria:
It is indicated for vertigo that happens after emotional upset, such as anger, humiliation, and suppressed emotions. They do feel dizzy and lightheaded after a period of intense emotional turmoil. Vertigo with heightened sensitivity to noise this remedy is well suited.
10) Pulsatilla nigricans:
It is indicated for cases of Vertigo which are worse in warm environments of heat. The patient feels unsteady and dizzy in warmth and prefers cool fresh air. Like Lycopodium, this remedy is also indicated when vertigo is accompanied by digestives issues like bloating and indigestion.
Written & Approved by-
Dr. Rajesh Shah
M.D. (Hom.)