Following an assault in which I received several blows to the right side of my head, I have suffered from Vertigo, accompanied by tinnitus, nystagmous of the right eye, and intermitant migrane's. I have had two ENG's, an MRI, and an EEG. I have been told that I suffer from post concussion nerve damage in the middle ear. I have had this condition for over 6 years and my doctor holds little hope that I'll recover. I have been prescribed valium (5mg.) and instructed to take them for the symptoms of dizzyness. A few months ago I suffered one hell of a ride with this vertigo, it seemed as though everything was swaying from side to side and caused me to become nauseous. After taking the valium, it took the edge off, but I still was'nt steady on my feet for over a week. Could you please tell me if there is anything I can do that can keep me off this "ride", and if there's no way to stay off this ride, please tell me what I can do to alleviate the symptom's.
Thanx;
Reply: -------------------------
I would recommend a consultation with a type of specialist known as an otologist or neurotologist. These are ear, nose, and throat specialists with special background and experience with inner ear disorders. In any chronic inner ear condition that is associated with bothersome vertigo, treatment recommendations depend upon the severity and frequency of the vertigo, as well as response to prior treatments. There are many dietary factors which can potentiate or aggravate the symptoms of an inner ear condition such as salt, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, etc. Substances known as lipoflavonoids are advocated by some. Vestibular suppressants such as valium or valium-like sedatives are often recommended for symptomatic use or in a low dosage for maintenance therapy on a regular basis. Vestibular adaptation therapy is also helpful in certain inner ear conditions associated with chronic or recurrent vertigo. This is a type of physical therapy designed to "re-train" the inner ear balance organ. Ultimately, if such therapies fail to control symptoms, and when vertigo is severe or excessively recurrent there may be surgical forms of therapy available.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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