When you have vertigo, it is more than just a dizzy spell. Your entire body and head is affected and your world seems to continually spin or shift around you. It can be debilitating and begin to impact your daily life.

Even though vertigo can be a diagnosis, it is not a disease. Rather, it is a symptom coming from a variety of conditions. Approximately 40% of Americans end up having a case of vertigo at least once during their lifetimes, so it is important to know what it feels like and how to treat it. Let our team at AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga take you through the details!

How Do You Get Vertigo?

When you experience vertigo, the most common reason is some sort of imbalance within your inner ear. When your equilibrium is off, that is where the spins can come from. Migraines, labyrinthitis and BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) are all conditions that contribute to vertigo.

Mild cases can last for only a couple of seconds, but severe cases can last hours or days. If your case is affecting your daily life on a consistent basis, it is time to go see a medical provider.

Other Symptoms of Vertigo

• Intense spinning or world shifting sensations
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
• Motion sickness

Can I Get Rid of Vertigo on My Own?

The good news is that most cases of vertigo will eventually go away on their own! But when your world is spinning around you, chances are that you want immediate relief. Certain anti-nausea medications can help with your upset stomach, and try to move through your day slowly and avoid quickly turning your head or bending over suddenly.

If your vertigo stems from a case of BPPV, there are certain head positions that your medical provider can help you through to encourage the calcium deposits to move through your ear. These movements should only be done under medical supervision to make sure that they are being done properly, but they can be incredibly effective for quick relief.

Reducing Vertigo Symptoms

• Stand up slowly.
• Sleep with your head elevated.
• Turn your whole body and not just your head.
• Squat to pick up something instead of bending over.

If your vertigo becomes severe or is recurrent, it is time to be evaluated by a medical provider. Drop by AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga to be seen quickly!