Vertigo
Description
This page has 48 references
"Vertigo" is a balance disorder marked by sensations of spinning, tilting, or dizziness, often triggered by changes in head position. One common form, Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), occurs when calcium crystals shift in the inner ear. These symptoms can also be accompanied by nausea or unsteadiness. Management often includes vestibular therapy or repositioning maneuvers like the Epley technique. Treating vertigo helps reduce fall risk, restore balance, and improve daily function and quality of life.
Symptoms & Signs
Body System
Ear, Nose and Throat
Causes
Inner-ear Injury, Inner-ear Infection, Inner-ear Bleeding, Debris in the Ear, Inner-ear Inflammation, Multiple Sclerosis, Head Trauma, Migraines
Things To Do
The dietary recommendations for vertigo include:
a whole-foods-based diet that includes fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, fish, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
limiting sodium intake. Sodium has a direct impact on the functioning of the inner ear.
gingner, which can help with nausea and dizziness.
foods containing vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency contributes to the occurrence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
foods rich in magnesium. Magnesium supports proper hearing.
space your meals evenly throughout the day. It helps manage blood sugar flactuations. Hypoglycemia can trigger migraines.
stay hydrated. Drinking enough water will help maintain inner ear fluids at proper levels.
Furthermore, try the following:
make it a habit to read food labels and screen for added sugar and sodium.
get enough quality sleep to prevent overtiredness and poor brain function.
In BBPV, research the Brandt-Daroff, Epley, Semont, and Foster exercises that will improve your condition.
During a vertigo attack, stop moving, sit down slowly, and grab something within your reach that will make you feel grounded.
Always change your positions slowly.
Wear flat shoes.
Stress management with yoga, meditation, and mindfulness.
Things To Avoid
The foods to avoid in Vertigo are:
processed, junk, and fast foods. They are high in sodium and carbohydrates. Sodium may negatively impact the inner ear, and refined carbohydrates cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels.
sugar, sodas, candy, sweets, and desserts. Sugar has a negative impact on blood sugar levels.
alcohol, caffeine, and caffeinated drinks. They affect the inner-ear fluid balance.
refined flours and a high-carbohydrate diet.
foods that contain tyramine [e.g., chicken liver, chocolate, bananas, aged cheeses, etc.]. Tyramine may trigger migraines.
Furthermore, avoid the following:
poor sleep, and excessive stress.
noisy and busy places, loud music, flickering, and flashing lights.
medications that can contribute to dizziness, such as antidepressants, aspirin, drugs for high blood pressure, etc.
smoking.
Supplements
Direct Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These supplements directly affect vertigo by supporting vestibular function, improving inner ear circulation, or calming nerve signals that contribute to imbalance.
Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in nerve health, helping to support cognitive function and reduce issues related to poor nerve signaling, especially in maintaining equilibrium and coordination.
Magnesium: Magnesium helps regulate nerve signals and muscle function, promoting relaxation and balance. It may improve overall physical coordination by ensuring proper nerve communication.
Calcium: Calcium supports muscle function and nervous system communication, helping maintain balance and prevent issues related to low calcium levels, particularly in muscle coordination and physical stability.
Vitamin D3/K2: Vitamin D, in combination with K, helps regulate calcium levels and supports vascular health. Together, they may reduce inflammation and promote healthy circulation, essential for overall balance and coordination.
Indirect Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These supplements do not target vertigo directly but may support inflammation control, stress resilience, or vascular health that influences balance and orientation.
Coenzyme Q10 [CoQ10]: CoQ10 boosts energy production in cells and supports brain function, helping to improve circulation and balance. Its antioxidant effects may further enhance physical stability and cognitive clarity.
Probiotics: Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut, which is linked to improved immune function and nervous system health. This balance may support better coordination and reduce physical instability caused by internal inflammation.
Natural Compounds
These natural compounds may help manage vertigo by supporting neurological stability, reducing dizziness, or promoting equilibrium through systemic effects.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide, when used in diluted forms, may help clear blockages in the ear canal, improving overall ear health. Based on anecdotal evidence, it has been suggested that this can contribute to better inner ear function and reduce symptoms related to ear issues.
Plant Extracts
Direct Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These plant extracts directly support relief from vertigo by reducing inner ear inflammation, promoting circulation, or stabilizing vestibular signals.
Ginkgo Biloba Extract: Ginkgo biloba enhances circulation and supports nerve health, improving balance and cognitive function. Its antioxidant properties may also contribute to overall stability and brain clarity.
Ginger Extract: Ginger has soothing effects on digestion and circulation, which may help improve overall balance and reduce physical discomfort. Its calming influence can also aid with coordination.
Curcumin: Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the body, improving circulation and balance. It supports better physical coordination by minimizing discomfort and promoting healing.
Indirect Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These extracts do not act directly on vertigo but may support nervous system balance, reduce oxidative stress, or improve fluid regulation in the inner ear.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
Alternative Treatments
These alternative therapies support balance restoration, reduce disorientation, and promote nervous system stability in individuals experiencing vertigo.
Tai Chi: Tai chi helps improve balance, coordination, and proprioception. Regular practice enhances stability, reduces the risk of falls, and helps maintain overall well-being, making it beneficial for those dealing with chronic balance issues.
Yoga: Yoga enhances posture, balance, and overall coordination. Specific poses that focus on improving stability can help manage physical symptoms and discomfort, especially when related to stress or vestibular challenges.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments, especially focused on the upper cervical spine, may relieve discomfort caused by misalignments. This therapy promotes balance by realigning the spine and improving overall posture and coordination.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture helps modulate the nervous system and boost circulation, particularly when targeting points like P6 (Neiguan) on the wrist. By alleviating dizziness and enhancing overall balance, acupuncture promotes better well-being with consistent treatment.
Acupressure: Acupressure, particularly on the P6 (Neiguan) point located three finger-widths below the palm on the inner wrist, provides relief from nausea and enhances balance. It is also beneficial for managing symptoms linked to motion sickness, which share similarities with balance disorders.
Functional Lab Tests You May Wish to Explore
Books Worth Considering for Deeper Insight
Currently, no high-quality books meeting our functional, integrative, and natural healing standards are available for this condition. As soon as trusted resources are published, we will review and feature them here.
Podcasts That Offer Valuable Perspectives
Currently, no high-quality books meeting our functional, integrative, and natural healing standards are available for this condition. As soon as trusted resources are published, we will review and feature them here.
Educational Videos To Learn From
How Key Nutrients Support the Body
Electrolytes: Electrolytes carry charged ions essential for transmitting nerve impulses, regulating muscle function, and maintaining fluid balance. They are pivotal in supporting hydration, nerve signaling, and overall physiological balance.
Enzymes and Coenzymes: Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, while coenzymes assist in these processes by binding temporarily to enzymes. Together, they regulate digestion, energy production, immune responses, and various metabolic pathways.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Essential Nutrients Explained
References
[1] Jeong SH, Kim JS, Kim HJ, et al. Prevention of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo with vitamin D supplementation: A randomized trial. Neurology. 2020;95(9):e1117-e1125.
[2] Elmoursy MM, Abbas AS. The role of low levels of vitamin D as a co-factor in the relapse of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Am J Otolaryngol. 2021;42(6):103134.
[3] Inan HC, Mertoğlu C, Erdur ZB. Investigation of Serum Calcium and 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Levels in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Patients. Ear Nose Throat J. 2021;100(9):643-646.
[4] Abdelmaksoud AA, Fahim DFM, Bazeed SES, Alemam MF, Aref ZF. Relation between vitamin D deficiency and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):16855. Published 2021 Aug 19.
[5] Jeong SH, Kim JS. Impaired Calcium Metabolism in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: A Topical Review. J Neurol Phys Ther. 2019;43 Suppl 2:S37-S41.
[6] Sarsitthithum K, Wisupagan T, Kiatthanabumrung S, Jariengprasert C. The Association Between Serum Vitamin D Levels and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo [published online ahead of print, 2021 Apr 18]. Ear Nose Throat J. 2021;1455613211008561.
[7] Sheikhzadeh M, Lotfi Y, Mousavi A, Heidari B, Monadi M, Bakhshi E. Influence of supplemental vitamin D on intensity of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: A longitudinal clinical study. Caspian J Intern Med. 2016;7(2):93-98.
[8] Yang B, Lu Y, Xing D, et al. Association between serum vitamin D levels and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2020;277(1):169-177.
[9] Jeong SH, Kim JS, Shin JW, et al. Decreased serum vitamin D in idiopathic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. J Neurol. 2013;260(3):832-838.
[10] Melis A, Rizzo D, Gallus R, et al. Relationship between calcium metabolism and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in north Sardinia population. J Vestib Res. 2020;30(6):375-382.
[11] Kahraman SS, Ozcan O, Arli C, et al. Calcium Homeostasis During Attack and Remission in Patients With Idiopathic Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. Otol Neurotol. 2016;37(9):1388-1392.
[12] Zucca G, Valli S, Valli P, Perin P, Mira E. Why do benign paroxysmal positional vertigo episodes recover spontaneously?. J Vestib Res. 1998;8(4):325-329.
[13] Karataş A, Acar Yüceant G, Yüce T, Hacı C, Cebi IT, Salviz M. Association of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo with Osteoporosis and Vitamin D Deficiency: A Case Controlled Study. J Int Adv Otol. 2017;13(2):259-265.
[14] Han DG, Kim DJ. The evolutionary hypothesis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Med Hypotheses. 2020;134:109445.
[15] Singh C, Kawatra R, Gupta J, Awasthi V, Dungana H. Therapeutic role of Vitamin B12 in patients of chronic tinnitus: A pilot study. Noise Health. 2016;18(81):93-97.
[16] Paik SW, Yang HJ, Seo YJ. Sixth Cranial Nerve Palsy and Vertigo Caused by Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency. J Audiol Otol. 2020;24(3):157-160.
[17] Cesarani A, Meloni F, Alpini D, Barozzi S, Verderio L, Boscani PF. Ginkgo biloba (EGb 761) in the treatment of equilibrium disorders. Adv Ther. 1998;15(5):291-304.
[18] Sokolova L, Hoerr R, Mishchenko T. Treatment of Vertigo: A Randomized, Double-Blind Trial Comparing Efficacy and Safety of Ginkgo biloba Extract EGb 761 and Betahistine. Int J Otolaryngol. 2014;2014:682439.
[19] Hamann KF. Ginkgo-Spezialextrakt bei Schwindel: Ein systematischer Review randomisierter, doppelblinder, placebokontrollierter klinischer Prüfungen [Special ginkgo extract in cases of vertigo: a systematic review of randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled clinical examinations]. HNO. 2007;55(4):258-263.
[20] Decker L, Basta D, Burkart M, Ernst A. Balance Training With Vibrotactile Neurofeedback and Ginkgo Biloba Extract in Age-Related Vertigo. Front Neurol. 2021;12:691917. Published 2021 Nov 30.
[21] Spiegel R, Kalla R, Mantokoudis G, et al. Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® alleviates neurosensory symptoms in patients with dementia: a meta-analysis of treatment effects on tinnitus and dizziness in randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Clin Interv Aging. 2018;13:1121-1127. Published 2018 Jun 13.
[22] Issing W, Klein P, Weiser M. The homeopathic preparation Vertigoheel versus Ginkgo biloba in the treatment of vertigo in an elderly population: a double-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial. J Altern Complement Med. 2005;11(1):155-160.
[23] Haguenauer JP, Cantenot F, Koskas H, Pierart H. Traitement des troubles de l'équilibre par l'extrait de Ginkgo biloba. Etude multicentrique à double insu face au placebo [Treatment of equilibrium disorders with Ginkgo biloba extract. A multicenter double-blind drug vs. placebo study]. Presse Med. 1986;15(31):1569-1572.
[24] Mahadevan S, Park Y. Multifaceted therapeutic benefits of Ginkgo biloba L.: chemistry, efficacy, safety, and uses. J Food Sci. 2008;73(1):R14-R19.
[25] Orendorz-Fraczkowska K, Pośpiech L, Gawron W. Wyniki skojarzonego leczenia uszkodzenia receptora przedsionkowego rehabilitacja ruchowa oraz wyciagiem z miłorzebu japońskiego (Egb 761) [Results of combined treatment for vestibular receptor impairment with physical therapy and Ginkgo biloba extract (Egb 761)]. Otolaryngol Pol. 2002;56(1):83-88.
[26] Grøntved A, Hentzer E. Vertigo-reducing effect of ginger root. A controlled clinical study. ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec. 1986;48(5):282-286.
[27] Xiaoxiang Z. Jinger moxibustion for treatment of cervical vertigo --a report of 40 cases. J Tradit Chin Med. 2006;26(1):17-18.
[28] Palatty PL, Haniadka R, Valder B, Arora R, Baliga MS. Ginger in the prevention of nausea and vomiting: a review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2013;53(7):659-669.
[29] Lete I, Allué J. The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy. Integr Med Insights. 2016;11:11-17. Published 2016 Mar 31.
[30] Tóth B, Lantos T, Hegyi P, et al. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): An alternative for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting. A meta-analysis. Phytomedicine. 2018;50:8-18.
[31] Xin Y, Zhang Z, Yu P, Ma F, Mao L. In vivo electrochemical recording of continuous change of magnesium in medial vestibular nucleus following vertigo induced by ice water vestibular stimulation. Science China Chemistry. 2013 Feb;56:256-61.
[32] Messina A, Ciodaro F, Corvaia A, Di Liberto S, Marino C. Use of magnesium citrate in the prophylaxis of vestibular migraine in childhood. Audiologia e Foniatria. 2022 May;7(Audiologia e Foniatria 7 (1)):51-60.
[33] Kumar A, Kaur H, Devi P, Mohan V. Role of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in cardiac disease, hypertension and Meniere-like syndrome. Pharmacology & therapeutics. 2009 Dec 1;124(3):259-68.
[34] Abouzari M, Tawk K, Lee D, Djalilian HR. Migrainous vertigo, tinnitus, and ear symptoms and alternatives. Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America. 2022 Oct 1;55(5):1017-33.
[35] Qi X, Fan G, Jia H. The probiotic Lactobacillus casei Shirota attenuates symptoms of vestibular migraine: a randomised placebo-controlled double-blind clinical trial. Beneficial Microbes. 2020 Sep 1;11(5):469-76.
[36] Rong Q, Chen H, Chen Y, Xu M, Chen R, Li C. Potential mechanisms of gut microbiota influence on different types of vertigo: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization and mediation analysis. BMC neurology. 2024 Aug 27;24(1):297.
[37] Chakraborty P, Ali S, Kaushik S, Ray R, Yadav R, Rai M, Singh D, Bhakat A. Curcuma longa-A multicentric clinical verification study. Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy. 2011;5(1):19-27.
[38] Libonati GA, Leone A, Martellucci S, Gallo A, Albera R, Lucisano S, Bavazzano M, Chiarella G, Viola P, Galletti F, Freni F. Prevention of recurrent benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: the role of combined supplementation with vitamin D and antioxidants. Audiology Research. 2022 Aug 22;12(4):445-56.
[39] Lee PS, Jung M, Abraham A, Lei-Rivera L, Kim AH. Efficacy of Tai Chi as a technique for vestibular rehabilitation—a preliminary quasi-experimental study. Journal of Physical Therapy. 2012;5(1):6-13.
[40] Wayne PM, Krebs DE, Wolf SL, Gill-Body KM, Scarborough DM, McGibbon CA, Kaptchuk TJ, Parker SW. Can Tai Chi improve vestibulopathic postural control?. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2004 Jan 1;85(1):142-52.
[41] Vaishali K, Kishore CP, Sampath CP, PS J. Effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation therapy and yoga in the management of chronic peripheral vertigo: A randomized controlled trial. F1000Research. 2024 Jun 5;13:578.
[42] Koçak İ, Gökler O, Aydoğan E, Karanfil I, Ünal ÖF. Can yoga cause benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?. The Turkish Journal of Ear Nose and Throat. 2017;27(4):159-63.
[43] Collins ME, Misukanis TM. Chiropractic management of a patient with post traumatic vertigo of complex origin. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. 2005 Dec 1;4(1):32-8.
[44] Sajko SS, Stuber K, Welsh TN. Chiropractic management of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo using the Epley maneuver: a case series. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics. 2013 Feb 1;36(2):119-26.
[45] Hou Z, Xu S, Li Q, Cai L, Wu W, Yu H, Chen H. The Efficacy of Acupuncture for the Treatment of Cervical Vertigo: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis. Evidence‐Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2017;2017(1):7597363.
[46] Chiu CW, Lee TC, Hsu PC, Chen CY, Chang SC, Chiang JY, Lo LC. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for dizziness and vertigo in emergency department: a pilot cohort study. BMC complementary and alternative medicine. 2015 Dec;15:1-7.
[47] Alessandrini M, Napolitano B, Micarelli A, De Padova A, Bruno E. P6 acupressure effectiveness on acute vertiginous patients: a double blind randomized study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2012 Dec 1;18(12):1121-6.
[48] Wei LI, Luo TA, Wang SQ. Sixty-five cases of cervical vertigo treated by needling Jngjiaj points in combination with acupressure. World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion. 2013 Jan 1;23(1):49-52.