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.

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