What's wrong with me?

By dizzychick April 29, 2013 - 1:42pm

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for the past few yrs been suffering with dizziness.after extensive research i presented my gp with my findings and he agreed with me that it was bppv(benign positional paroxysmal vertigo) he told me to look up the 'epley manouvre',and that i should do it at home,was also given 'stemetil' to take for the dizziness,that was in 2011.
so friday,finally i got to see an ENT dr,he sent me for a hearing test(which i wont be getting till july,sighs)but there is nothing wrong with my hearing,its my balance.and the heap of symptoms that goes along with it.

its not easy living with this disorder,its a terrible thing that i wouldnt wish on my worst enemy.
i am not coping well at all...does anyone have any advise,suggestions,ideas,etc etc?? thnxx in advance.

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Maryann Gromisch RN Guide

Hello dizzychick,

As you may already know, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is one of the most common causes of vertigo, which is the sudden sensation that you are spinning or that the inside of your head is spinning.

In about 50% of cases of BPPV, doctors cannot identify a specific cause.
In the remaining 50% of cases, BPPV is often associated with a minor or severe blow to the head.

Less common causes include disorders that damage your inner ear or, rarely
damage that occurs during ear surgery or during prolonged positioning on your back. BPPV has also been associated with migraines.

The potential connection between BPPV and damage to the inner ear can be why you have been advised to consult an ENT specialist.

The staff of the Mayo Clinic cite canalith repositioning as one treatment option. "Performed in your doctor's office, the canalith repositioning procedure consists of several simple and slow maneuvers for positioning your head. The goal is to move particles from the fluid-filled semicircular canals of your inner ear into a tiny bag-like open area (vestibule) that houses one of the otolith organs (utricle) in your ear where these particles don't cause trouble and are more easily resorbed. Each position is held for about 30 seconds after any symptoms or abnormal eye movements stop. This procedure is usually effective after one or two treatments."

Living with BPPV can be challenging. You may find encouragement and understanding in a support group. If you are interested, ask your doctor to recommend a group in your area.

Regards,

Maryann

April 29, 2013 - 5:10pm