10 Key Rules Against Vertigo

The world seems to have turned upside down… All the objects around me are moving… The ground is slipping from under my feet… My stomach feels nauseous, my eyes are moving involuntarily, I feel fullness and pressure in my ears… It seems my hearing has diminished…

  These complaints are among the most common problems caused by dizziness, or vertigo as it is medically known, which develops in 3 out of every 100 people. It can develop as simple and brief attacks lasting only a few seconds, or it can be severe enough to cause serious problems in daily life, persisting for hours or even days. In fact, patients become anxious about their head spinning at any moment, avoiding going out into the street, and even fearing being alone at home. Although it usually results from inner ear crystals becoming dislodged, many factors can actually cause vertigo. During summer months, the reduced work pace and vacations allow us to relax psychologically, which reduces the frequency of vertigo. However, it is still worth being careful, as some summer-specific factors can trigger vertigo. Acıbadem Fulya Hospital Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist Dr. Feyzi Elez explained the precautions that should be taken against vertigo and provided important warnings.

Avoid being in the sun during these hours

Excessive heat can trigger vertigo by reducing inner ear fluids. Therefore, try not to go outside between 10:00-16:00 hours, when the sun's rays hit the ground most directly.

Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water is important for maintaining fluid balance in the inner ear. Never neglect to drink plenty of water without waiting to feel thirsty.

Be careful with water and pool activities!

Inverted movements in water can negatively affect our ear health. For example, movements such as jumping rapidly into water and doing somersaults, although enjoyable, can lay the groundwork for vertigo caused by the shedding of ear crystals. Summer boat trips, which are also frequently preferred during summer months, can trigger underlying inner ear disease. Another point to watch out for is diving. Increased atmospheric pressure can trigger migraine disease, causing vertigo similar to Meniere's disease, also known as migrainous vertigo.

Vitamin D is very important

Studies show there is a link between vitamin D deficiency and vertigo. Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist Dr. Feyzi Elez warns that since ear crystals contain calcium, fragility increases in vitamin D deficiency, which aids the absorption of this element, stating: "Summer months are when vitamin D levels are at their highest. Benefit from sunlight during appropriate times of the day to ensure vitamin D support. You can also take vitamin D supplements if you wish. Do not neglect to take advantage of foods containing calcium, especially."

Avoid driving for long periods

Excessive fatigue and driving stress can also trigger inner ear diseases. Following moving images for long periods strains the balance system and impairs concentration. Therefore, do not drive for long periods without taking breaks; rest frequently. If you have a history of motion sickness in addition to vertigo, always carry medication with you, especially during car and sea travel.

Keep stress under control

It is also very important that you manage stress in relation to vertigo. The stress factor is particularly effective on blood vessels in the inner ear. Narrowing of blood vessels caused by stress can change the fluid pressure in the inner ear, causing vertigo.

The milk, cheese and yogurt trio is important

Increase consumption of milk, cheese and yogurt, which are high in calcium content. According to studies, calcium intake contributes to healthier crystal structure.

Walk in the evening cool

Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist Dr. Feyzi Elez recommends "engaging in walking activities. Because walking is important for balance rehabilitation," stating: "Generally, walking at a speed of 4 km per hour for about 30 minutes in the morning and evening is very helpful in resolving balance problems."

Limit caffeinated beverages

Be careful to consume food and beverages containing caffeine in limited amounts. Pointing out that caffeine has a particularly negative effect on inner ear pressure, Dr. Feyzi Elez provides the following information: "For those with active inner ear disease, we limit coffee consumption to 1-2 times per week during this period. Furthermore, since it directly negatively affects the balance system, limited consumption of alcoholic beverages is very important."

These seafood items are very tasty, but…

Limit consumption of deep-sea products such as shrimp, squid and mussels. When consumed excessively, these products can trigger dizziness due to the heavy metals and organic and inorganic compounds they contain.