How does an earthquake make you feel? Dizzy, anxious, or stressed? And what about when you have vertigo? Can earthquakes trigger vertigo? It's a question that might have never crossed your mind, but you ought to know the answer. Essentially, earthquakes can indeed set off dizzying spells. While the connection between the two might not be immediately apparent, there is a subtle yet significant link that you must know about. 

This article aims to explore this connection and introduce one of the most subtle causes of vertigo - atlas subluxation. If you've ever experienced vertigo, you know how disorienting and disruptive it can be to your life. So, let's dive into this topic and uncover what you need to know about the relationship between earthquakes and vertigo. 

Seismic Activity and Vertigo Episodes

The link between the two lies in the delicate structures of the inner ear, which are responsible for maintaining balance and orientation. During an earthquake, the ground shakes, and this can cause the fluid in the inner ear to move in unexpected ways. As a result, the signals that the brain receives from the inner ear are disrupted, leading to feelings of dizziness and disorientation. 

An intriguing study that examined the experiences of individuals who endured the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes and aftershocks illustrates how the body responds to such intense natural events. The research involved a survey of participants' experiences and symptoms after the earthquakes. Quite interestingly, out of 4,231 participants, 1,543 reported having vertigo episodes following the earthquakes.

The study also identified factors that might have increased the likelihood of post-earthquake dizziness. For instance, people aged 21 and above, women, and those who were on the third floor or higher during the quake were more prone to dizziness. Other contributing factors included the presence of ear-related symptoms like tinnitus or ear fullness, anxiety, and symptoms related to autonomic dysfunction. Even having a prior history of motion sickness seemed to increase the risk.

The findings suggest that the vibrations and physical disruptions caused by earthquakes can significantly affect our inner ear and autonomic functions, potentially leading to a kind of disequilibrium or vertigo. This kind of imbalance could also be exacerbated by other earthquake-related stressors, including changes in living conditions and autonomic stress.

Correcting Atlas Subluxation: A Lasting Source of Vertigo Relief

Notably, besides the risk factors identified above, it would also help to look into atlas bone subluxation. That’s because postural imbalances can impact vestibular function, increasing your risks for vertigo episodes. If you live somewhere on the western coast, the midwest south of the Great Lakes, Hawaii, or other parts of the globe that are prone to earthquakes, you should definitely consider addressing your neck bone misalignments to lessen your risks for dizziness and injuries that might arise due to vestibular dysfunction.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care is a great approach to managing vertigo and misalignments. Regular checks and adjustments can fix inner ear problems, correct spinal misalignments, and reduce vertigo episodes. This is because the Upper Cervical spine, also known as the atlas and axis vertebrae, is closely related to the inner ear and controls its function. If there is any misalignment in this area, it can cause disruption to the inner ear, leading to vertigo symptoms.

If you are experiencing vertigo, seeking out an Upper Cervical Chiropractor may be a good option for you. A trusted local chiropractor can perform a thorough examination to identify any misalignments in your Upper Cervical spine and develop a personalized care plan to help manage your vertigo symptoms. Don't wait any longer to seek help - book an appointment with your local chiropractor as soon as possible and start experiencing relief from vertigo and other related symptoms.