If you suffer from vertigo, you may live in fear of when the next bout of spinning will strike. However, there are some well-documented triggers that could be causing your flare-ups. Knowing what can cause a bout of vertigo is half the battle. Finding a source of long-term relief is the other half, and we’ll discuss both.

What Triggers Vertigo?

Here are 5 things that may be causing the onset of your symptoms:

• MSG – The ingredient that Chinese food is famous for is actually in a lot more foods than you might think. Everything from menu items at fast food restaurants like McDonald’s and Burger King to packaged goods like certain flavors of Doritos can contain MSG. The biggest issue with this flavor-enhancer is that it is high in sodium.
• NaCl – While we’re already talking about salt let’s make that number 2 on the list. A diet that is too high in sodium can affect inner ear fluid levels and lead to more frequent and severe vertigo attacks.
• Booze – You don’t have to overindulge in alcohol for the room to start spinning. If you already suffer from vertigo, drinking in moderation may be enough to set it off.
• Sensory Overload – Light sensitivity is often the culprit here. A bright light can be a shock to the vestibular system and send a person with vertigo looking for a place to quickly sit down.
• Patterns – Repeating patterns are also known for triggering vertigo. Some will experience vertigo from something as simple as walking down the aisle of a grocery store and seeing repeating patterns of cans on the shelves.

The Upper Cervical Solution to Vertigo

Vertigo may be related to a common misalignment in the top bone of the spine, the atlas. A misalignment in this sensitive area can affect the ears, brainstem, and blood flow to the head. Case studies have revealed that patients who have suffered head or neck injuries (i.e. whiplash) often see an end to vertigo after gentle atlas adjustments.

If you are suffering from chronic bouts of vertigo, especially if you have a history of head or neck trauma, contact an upper cervical chiropractor near you to learn more.

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