McMonigle Neurology Associates
Vertigo
Vertigo
HOW WE CAN HELP
If you have unexplained dizziness or unsteadiness or have suffered from vertigo in the past, seeing a medical professional about your symptoms is important to find out how serious these symptoms might be. When you make an appointment with Dr. Jennifer McMonigle Medical PC of East Northport, NY you can rest assured that you are working with someone who helped many patients manage their bouts of vertigo. When you come in for an appointment she will be able to assess the severity and help shed a light on why you might be experiencing vertigo and what you can do to counter it.
ABOUT VERTIGO SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES
Vertigo is the name of the symptoms and sensations that mimic the feeling of movement. This sensation of movement which feels physically real to the person suffering from vertigo may include the feeling of spinning, a constant rocking or tilting. Some may even feel as though their body is in a state of being dropped. These sensory miscues are caused by problems with the systems in the inner ear that regulate balance.
Vertigo can occur for a variety of reasons but usually, there is a faulty connection within the inner ear. Acute vertigo can be very debilitating and can affect one’s ability to go about their daily tasks. Chronic issues of imbalance might point to a more complex underlying medical issue. In either case, your doctor may suggest seeking out the help of a specialist to assess your condition and work toward finding an effective treatment to deal with these symptoms
VERTIGO TREATMENT
Being able to determine whether someone is experiencing vertigo rather than some other form of lightheadedness or disorientation is an important first step to treatment. Your neurologist will likely do a physical examination to observe the severity to which your balance issues are affecting you. Vestibular testing may also be called for part of which may include an eye exam. Testing your function during an episode of vertigo is especially helpful so the doctor can observe how you are being affected.
In many cases, vertigo symptoms tend to go away on their own when the body learns to compensate for the inner ear imbalance. Home treatment in the form of specific exercises like the Epley Maneuver can help treat the type of vertigo known as BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.) Other treatments may include the use of oral steroids to reduce inflammation in the inner ear or even use of water pills to correct fluid imbalances. Again, the type of treatment depends on what underlying condition might be causing these symptoms in the first place. Your neurologist can work with you to find an effective treatment plan that will help you resume your normal activities as quickly as possible.
