Despite being a common health symptom, vertigo remains confusing to those with it. One reason is that many assume it’s a disease or a condition. However, it’s a sign of an underlying medical problem. Many also get blindsided by popular myths about vertigo attacks. Learn about these common vertigo myths and misconceptions in this blog. Hopefully, by debunking these things, you can achieve lasting vertigo relief.

1. “Vertigo episodes can stop, so stop feeling agitated or anxious.”

This statement doesn’t apply to everyone. For example, if the spinning sensations stem from an inner ear infection, they can potentially disappear once the infection subsides. Other vertigo attacks can take longer to resolve, especially those triggered by defective or damaged vestibular organs, cervical bone misalignments, and tumor growth. 

We suggest talking to your physician, therapist, or ENT to get to the bottom of your symptom. This will allow you to assess the severity of your vertigo-causing condition and what specific steps you need to take to experience relief. 

2. “Vertigo only stems from BPPV.”

Because BPPV accounts for a significant fraction of reported vertigo episodes, some assume that it is the only possible trigger or cause of the symptom. Case studies published over the years have identified several vertigo causes, including the following: 

Meniere’s disease 

It’s a condition of the vestibular system that develops due to excessive fluid buildup in the inner ears. Some theorize that it can also stem from other factors such as previous infections, neck or head trauma history, and allergic reactions.  

Vestibular migraines:

As per the American Migraine Foundation, up to three percent of the US adult population has vestibular migraines. It’s a type of migraine attack that sets off chronic or recurring vertigo attacks accompanied by other symptoms like pounding headaches, sensory sensitivity, and nausea. 

Acoustic neuroma

Benign tumor growths on the vestibular nerve can trigger chronic vertigo attacks. The bulging mass compresses the nerve roots and skews the signals transmitted between the central nervous system and the vestibular organs. Unfortunately, this health concern affects around 3000 Americans each year. 

Inner ear infection

Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis can adversely affect vestibular function. The inflammation caused by both types of inner ear infections can put undue pressure on the vestibular system.

3. “Your diet has nothing to do with your worsening vertigo attacks.”

Nutrition and diet sit at the forefront of healthcare and wellness. Hence, you should include looking into your food choices and potential vitamin deficiencies in your self-care plan. Here are a few things you should remember to keep your vertigo attacks at bay:

Watch your sodium intake 

Look out for products that contain heaps of sodium, like frozen goods, aged cheese, and deli meats. Too much sodium in the body can affect the fluid balance in the ears, increasing your risks for problems in the vestibular system.

Make sure you drink enough 

Proper hydration can help you fight infections that aggravate your vertigo episodes. It can also maintain healthy blood flow to the brain.

Check for Vitamin D or magnesium deficiency 

Studies found that people with vitamin D or magnesium deficiencies are more prone to vertigo-causing problems. So it would help to look out for vitamin deficiency symptoms and find suitable food supplements to include in your diet. 

Say yes to potassium-rich food 

Bananas and apricots contain high amounts of potassium. Including them in your weekly diet can help maintain smooth fluid regulation in your body. 

4. “It’s impossible to relieve vertigo attacks.”

While vertigo attacks can be overwhelming, it definitely possible to cope and manage the symptoms. Healthcare professionals recommend a myriad of potential sources of vertigo relief. Here are a few examples: 

Herbal remedies

Herbal remedies for vertigo attacks have immense potential in reducing the severity of the symptoms. Some example of these remedies include Gingko Biloba, a traditional Chinese medicine herb that helps improve cerebral blood flow. 

Canalith repositioning maneuvers

Some patients diagnosed with vertigo due to BPPV take advantage of canalith repositioning maneuvers like the Epley Technique to help replace dislodged inner ear crystals. It’s a promising technique that you can use in conjunction with other sources of vertigo relief such as taking medications or undergoing upper cervical care. 

Upper cervical chiropractic care

A significant number of patients who complain of recurring vertigo attacks experience lasting relief after getting their neck bones adjusted. That’s because this helps address some of the potential triggers of vertigo attacks, including:

• Misaligned neck and head
• Brainstem compression
• Poor fluid drainage
• Impaired cerebral blood flow

It’s a scientifically proven remedy that has worked wonders for a broad spectrum of individuals. The technique includes a careful analysis of the topmost neck bones to gauge the degree of subluxation and develop a tailored approach to correct the postural imbalances. 

It’s a good idea to explore this technique especially if you have recurring bouts of vertigo and show no improvements despite trying other remedies. You should also try it out if you have a history of neck or head trauma and notice signs of cervical subluxation like uneven shoulders and gait.

Take Advantage of the Most Highly Recommended Source of Vertigo Relief

Hopefully, our list of vertigo misconceptions and myths helped you understand your condition better. If you need more help with your symptom, feel free to contact a nearby upper cervical doctor. Locate one in your city or nearby areas so you can schedule your initial C1 and C2 bone assessment. Your path to healing and recovery from your vertigo-causing disease or disorder starts with you. Take advantage of upper cervical chiropractic today!

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