Causes of vertigo
Often times, the problem with vertigo resides in our inner ear which contains structures responsible for balance. These structures respond to gravity and the various orientations in which we find ourselves on a daily basis, allowing the body to maintain the necessary orientation.
This is the reason why no matter what complex position you find yourself in during yoga, your body learns to adjust! When these structures are damaged or offset, problems arise. Vertigo can be a primary symptom of Meniere’s Disease, migraines, head injury, or reduced blood flow to the brain.
Areas of the brain responsible for balance and posture, such as the cerebellum and brainstem, are supplied through posterior circulation, with arteries delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to cells and removing any waste produced.
When these structures receive an insufficient amount of blood, they under function, a condition known as vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI). Those suffering from VBI may also experience blurred or double vision, and falls caused by a buckling of the knees, as though one’s strings have been cut. If any of these symptoms begin to show, it is important to see your primary care provider for further testing.
Some management tips :
- Acupuncture. Studies have shown positive results treating vertigo as a result of VBI, by stimulating increased blood flow to the undersupplied structures and decreasing the frequency of vertigo spells. Always ensure you see a registered and certified practitioner and never attempt acupuncture on your own.
- Education. Learning the warning signs of vertigo can be the first step in prevention, buying you valuable time to ensure you’re in a safe position. The human body is a fascinating thing in itself, and learning about how vertigo-related conditions work from organizations such as the Vestibular Disorders Association is a great way to engage with your health.
- Symptomatic relief. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to have powerful effects on the circulatory system, opening up blood vessels and improving oxygen supply to tissues. This can be an easy addition to your diet via tinctures such as Ginkgoforce.
- Diet. Reduce intake of foods that are high in sugar as it can affect the proper maintenance of fluid levels. It is critical to maintain fluids throughout the body to avoid insufficient blood supply to the brain’s balancing act. Additionally, foods that promote inflammation, such as animal fats, artificial additives, and fried foods, can narrow vessels, making it more difficult for blood to pass. This can increase pressure and prevent adequate blood supply, so avoid them where possible.
- Bring some balance into your workout. Training muscles that help us maintain posture, such as the erector spinae, glutes, and hip flexors, can also play a role in supporting us during spells of vertigo.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19663090
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21739689
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25847559
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25876341
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26231276
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27638081
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8710132
http://vestibular.org/educational-resources