vertigo

Causes of vertigo could be serious neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis, brain hemorrhage, or stroke. Sometimes, vertigo can even be triggered off by rapid changes in motion such as rides in roller coasters, airplanes, cars, and boats.

I suffer from vertigo and know that it's because of an inner ear issue combined with far-sightedness. Odd carpet patterns can make me feel dizzy.

More on causes of vertigo

Anon, are you dealing with vertigo?

Have you had episodes before? How long do they last?

I've had several bouts of vertigo, and honestly we never figured out why. I even started wondering if something seasonal can set it off, like extreme levels of tree or mold pollen. It's annoying and difficult to deal with at best, and at its worst you can feel sick, miserable and depressed.

Know that small doses of motion-sickness medicine (like Bonine, which is meclizine) can help you get through the vertigo days. Also, you almost have to learn not to trust your sense of balance for a few days -- be sure that when you walk, you have a hand on the wall. If you are seated at the table and feel like suddenly you are falling, put a hand on the table and will yourself to sit still -- even though it feels wrong. If you are in bed and you feel like you're falling out, focus on being still. You eventually can train yourself to be still even when you feel like you are losing your balance, and that small amount of control helps a lot.

Hang in there. I know how bad it can be. Ginger ale and saltines do a lot for the nausea as well.

Would you like to know the causes of vertigo?

If so, the Mayo Clinic has the best descriptions found here.

A summary:
Vertigo usually results from a problem with the nerves and the structures of the balance mechanism in your inner ear.

Causes:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Often occurs when getting out of bed in the morning (changing positions). Doctors aren't sure what causes BPPV, but may be a normal part of aging.
- Inflammation of inner ear ("vestibular neuronitis"). Generally subsides and clears up on its own
- Meniere's disease. Excess fluid build-up in ear. Cause is unknown.
- Migraine-related vertigo.
- Other causes are also listed

What are your symptoms? How long have you been having them? How old are you, and do you have any other medical conditions or medication that you are taking?