Managing Severe Vertigo: Seeking Solutions
For over a year now, I've been grappling with intense vertigo, dizziness, and an unsteady sense of balance, all triggered after my last bout with Covid. Occasionally, I also face mild nausea alongside these symptoms. Upon visiting an ear, nose, and throat specialist, she examined my ears and sinuses, finding them to be normal. However, during the consultation, she inserted a telescope through my nose and into my throat, where she discovered a lesion. She expressed concerns about multiple sclerosis, leading me to undergo a head MRI (without contrast) and a throat CT scan, both of which yielded normal results. I proposed that my condition could be benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), but she quickly dismissed that possibility, claiming that the duration of my symptoms was too extended for such a diagnosis. The doctor also mentioned postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), though my blood pressure readings are on the high side rather than low. Interestingly, I experienced some vertigo during my initial Covid episode back in 2020, but it resolved within a few weeks. Since then, I've contracted Covid four times, and this latest instance has left my symptoms persistent. Each time I recline or lay back, I experience a spinning sensation, which is even more pronounced when I lean backward. While the spinning typically lasts just a few seconds, the intensity is quite uncomfortable. Financial constraints are a concern as I am still managing payments for the MRI and CT scan, so I am reaching out here in hopes that someone might provide guidance or suggestions. I'm a 61-year-old female, living with type 1 diabetes, Hashimoto's disease, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and hyperadrenergic postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (HaTS).
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 6:50:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about your ongoing struggle with vertigo and the complexities you're facing after your COVID-19 infections. Your symptoms clearly impact your quality of life, and it's understandable that you're seeking effective management options.
Summary of Main Points
Persistent vertigo can be challenging, especially when other health conditions are present. Based on your situation, we will focus on exploring self-management strategies for your vertigo, the connection to your health conditions, and potential triggers to avoid.
Explanation
Chronic vertigo can stem from various causes, and in your case, it may be influenced by your history of COVID-19, underlying health conditions (like Type 1 diabetes and Hashimoto's disease), and possibly other vestibular issues. Given that your MRI and CT scans were normal, you've taken important steps to rule out serious conditions like tumors or lesions.
Your symptoms during movements, especially reclining or leaning backward, do raise the possibility of vestibular dysfunction or even BPPV, despite your specialist's dismissal. These bouts of spinning are common in vestibular disorders.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Maintain a Symptom Diary: Track your vertigo episodes, noting their duration, intensity, activities before the onset, and any specific triggers (like specific head movements). This will help identify patterns and potential triggers.
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Vestibular Rehabilitation Exercises: Consider doing vestibular rehabilitation exercises at home, like the Epley maneuver if you suspect BPPV. These can be useful for managing positional vertigo and might help alleviate your symptoms. Start slowly and see how your symptoms react.
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Hydration and Diet Adjustments: Staying well-hydrated is essential, especially with conditions like MCAS and diabetes. Concentrate on a balanced diet to help stabilize energy and blood sugar levels, which can also affect dizziness.
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Environmental Modifications: Reduce exposure to triggers like bright lights, loud noises, or sudden movements that could exacerbate symptoms. Being mindful of how you move or position yourself could minimize discomfort.
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Consult with a Physiatrist or Vestibular Specialist: If finances allow in the future, a specialist who focuses on vestibular disorders could offer tailored exercises and treatments. They can help create a personalized rehabilitation plan.
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Educational Resources: Consider looking for online resources or support groups focusing on vestibular disorders, where you can share experiences and gain insights from others facing similar challenges.
It's commendable that you're advocating for your health despite financial constraints. Remember, managing a complex condition is a gradual process, and it's okay to seek support from various sources. You're not alone in this.
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