What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness, where you feel as if you or your surroundings are moving or tilting, even when you’re perfectly still. It’s not a condition itself but a symptom of an underlying issue, typically related to problems in the inner ear or the brain’s balance centres.
Common Causes of Vertigo:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Small calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged, affecting balance.
- Inner Ear Infections (Labyrinthitis or Vestibular Neuritis): Inflammation can disrupt balance signals.
- Meniere’s Disease: A condition involving fluid buildup in the inner ear.
- Migraine-Associated Vertigo: Vertigo can occur with or without a headache.
- Head Injury or Trauma: Can disturb the inner ear structures.
- Circulation Issues: Reduced blood flow to the brain can cause sudden dizziness.
- Stress and Anxiety: May exacerbate sensations of dizziness or imbalance.
Why Does Vertigo Come On Suddenly?
- Rapid head movements or changing position (e.g., lying down, rolling over, looking up).
- Viral infections affecting the inner ear.
- Changes in blood pressure or circulation.
- Physical trauma or injury.
- Hormonal changes, especially around menopause.
Fitness Pilates Considerations for Vertigo:
Exercises to Avoid:
- Fast changes in head position (e.g., rolling quickly from side to side).
- Inversions or moves where the head goes below the heart (e.g., shoulder stands).
- Sudden rotational movements of the head and neck.
- Lying supine and turning the head side to side rapidly.
- Eyes-closed balance exercises, especially standing.
Exercises to Include:
- Slow, controlled movements focusing on breath and stability.
- Seated or side-lying exercises that keep the head stable.
- Gentle neck mobility exercises within a comfortable range.
- Standing balance work with visual focus (keeping eyes fixed on a point).
- Breathwork and relaxation to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger symptoms.
Common Side Effects of Vertigo
Medications (e.g., Betahistine, Prochlorperazine, Diazepam):
- Drowsiness and fatigue.
- Blurred vision.
- Dry mouth.
- Nausea or stomach upset.
- Reduced alertness (important to consider before driving or exercising).
- In some cases, dependence or withdrawal symptoms (particularly with withdrawal symptoms particularly with sedatives like Diazepam).
Key Takeaway:
With vertigo, the goal is to move gently and avoid triggering head movements that disturb the balance system. Prioritise calming the nervous system through breathwork and stability-focused Pilates, and always consult with a healthcare provider before resuming exercise if symptoms are severe.
