Episodi
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In this episode of "I'm Just Dizzy," we delve into a topic that has garnered significant attention over recent years: the prevalence of vestibular and cochlear symptoms associated with COVID-19 infections and vaccinations. Join us as we unravel the complexities behind symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing loss, which have become notably common among COVID-19 survivors and those who have been vaccinated.
We start by exploring the statistics that shed light on the frequency of these symptoms. Post-COVID-19 infection, a significant number of people have exhibited spontaneous and positional nystagmus, difficulty with eye movements, and vertigo, indicating potential inner ear damage and vestibular dysfunction. We also discuss the incidence of these symptoms following vaccination, reassuring listeners that while the numbers are lower, the experiences of those affected are no less significant.
Our journey continues as we examine the potential causes of these symptoms. From direct viral infections of the inner ear to vascular complications and the impact of Long COVID, we cover the various factors contributing to these distressing conditions. We delve into the intricacies of inner ear infections, such as vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis, and their potential to lead to chronic conditions like Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness (3PD).
Moreover, we address the challenges in diagnosing central vestibular disorders and the importance of an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Highlighting the benefits of vestibular rehabilitation and complementary therapies, we emphasize the need for individualized treatment plans to aid recovery.
Finally, we stress the importance of ongoing research in understanding these symptoms and developing better treatment protocols. As we wrap up, we encourage our listeners to stay informed and proactive about their health, reminding them that they are not alone in this journey. Tune in for expert insights, valuable information, and a supportive community dedicated to your health and well-being.
Let me know in the Comments section if you have specific topics you want me to cover.
Don't forget about the download, which you can access from our podcast show on our website.
Looking for more resources?
CLICK HERE to visit our website to answer additional questions.
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Welcome to today's episode of "Raising Your Threshold in Vestibular Migraine." In this segment, we delve into the intricate world of vestibular migraine—a condition that continues to puzzle both patients and clinicians. Unlike traditional migraines, vestibular migraines may not always present with a headache. Instead, they often manifest through symptoms such as light and sound sensitivity, nausea, vomiting, and visual aura, making diagnosis a unique challenge.
Patients with vestibular migraine frequently struggle with poor tolerance to position changes (like bending over, looking up, or rolling in bed), self-motion (such as turning the head), and visual motion (for example, cars passing at an intersection). Busy environments, like grocery stores, can also pose difficulties and sensations of unsteadiness. Additionally, it's common for individuals to report ear-related symptoms such as pressure, fullness, ringing, or even hearing loss.
This episode provides a comprehensive historical perspective on vestibular migraine, shedding light on its diagnostic criteria and challenges within the healthcare system. We also explore non-pharmaceutical treatment options, emphasizing lifestyle behaviors that can help manage and potentially prevent vestibular migraines. By understanding these approaches, listeners can gain valuable insights into elevating their threshold for this complex condition.
Join us as we navigate the nuances of vestibular migraine, offering expert advice and practical strategies to empower you on your journey to better health. Whether you're a patient seeking relief or a clinician aiming to enhance your understanding, this episode promises to be a valuable resource. Tune in and take the first step towards raising your threshold for vestibular migraines.
Let me know in the Comments section if you have specific topics you want me to cover.
Don't forget about the download, which you can access from our podcast show on our website.
Looking for more resources?
CLICK HERE to visit our website to answer additional questions.
CLICK HERE to access our blogs and sign-up for our newsletters.
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Episodi mancanti?
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In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of Vestibular Ocular Reflex (VOR) training, a vital component in managing dizziness and balance disorders. Discover how specific gaze stabilization exercises can improve your VOR to reduce movement-related dizziness and unsteadiness, blurriness with head motion, and even nausea.
We closely examine the anatomy of the ear--from outer ear to inner ear--and the physiology of the VOR pathways between the inner ear and brain. We also discuss personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, combining advanced vestibular testing with specialized physical therapy.
We cover essential exercises like VOR Viewing X1 and VOR Viewing X2 viewing, designed to improve your ability to maintain visual focus during head movements and decrease, if not alleviate, your movement-related symptoms. Learn the step-by-step techniques to practice these exercises at home, ensuring you get the most out of your vestibular rehabilitation therapy.
Join us as we explore the science behind VOR, offer practical tips, and support those struggling with dizziness. This episode will provide insights for patients and healthcare providers.
Don't forget about the download, which you can access from our podcast show on our website.
Looking for more resources?
CLICK HERE to visit our website to answer additional questions.
CLICK HERE to access our blogs and sign-up for our newsletters.
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This episode emphasizes the critical importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. Early identification can significantly enhance recovery outcomes, but knowing that effective treatment is possible even months or years after the initial injury is reassuring.
We examine the phenomenon of recurring symptoms, explaining how stressors like physical exertion or lack of sleep can cause them to resurface. This doesn’t mean the concussion itself has returned but rather that the associated symptoms are re-emerging. Our discussion includes the evolving understanding of concussion management over the past decades, highlighting how outdated practices have given way to more effective, evidence-based approaches.
Listeners will learn about the current best practices for treating persistent symptoms, including the benefits of gradual reactivation and symptom provocation strategies. We also touch on the interconnectedness of various injuries—such as those to the neck, inner ear, and eyes—and their role in concussion-like symptoms.
As we wrap up, we acknowledge the complexity of managing concussions and invite our audience to request future episodes dedicated to this multifaceted topic. Join us for a professional and empathetic exploration aimed at providing clarity and support on your health journey.
Would you like more episodes focused on specific aspects of concussion care? Let us know in the comments section.
And, don't forget about the Concussion Profile download.
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Welcome to Episode 8 of "I'm Just Dizzy," where we delve into some of our patients' most pressing questions about dizziness and vertigo. This episode addresses various topics to provide clarity, reassurance, and practical advice on managing these challenging symptoms.
We begin by tackling whether dizziness is an age-related issue and explore the distinctions between hereditary and genetic factors influencing dizziness. We then discuss the concept of "no pain, no gain" in vestibular rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing symptoms without overexertion.
Next, we group several related questions to provide comprehensive insights into how stress, vision, neck issues, and medications can contribute to dizziness and unsteadiness. Each factor plays a crucial role in your overall sense of balance and well-being, and we offer actionable tips on addressing them.
We also demystify vertigo by defining it clearly and discussing its common causes and symptoms. For those who have experienced severe vertigo episodes, we address concerns about recurrence and delve into conditions like BPPV and Meniere’s Disease.
Finally, we answer whether you'll need to continue specific exercises indefinitely, highlighting the benefits of lifelong balance exercises while stressing that individualized plans are key to effective management.
Join us while I share common questions from patients with dizziness and unsteadiness. Tune in to gain valuable insights, feel supported, and become part of a community dedicated to enhancing well-being through knowledge and shared experiences.
What other questions do you have about dizziness? Please send them in, and let’s navigate this journey together.
Looking for more resources?
CLICK HERE to visit our website to answer additional questions.
CLICK HERE to access our blogs and sign-up for our newsletters.
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Welcome to another insightful episode, in which we delve into the nuanced world of Functional Neurological Disorders (FND). For those familiar with our past episodes, we favor engaging and catchy titles, and this one is no exception. Today, we spotlight Functional Neurological Disorders and their wide array of symptoms.
Despite its relative obscurity—even within healthcare circles—FND is more prevalent than many realize. Our guest, renowned neurologist Dr. Jon Stone, defines FND as a condition stemming from functional issues in the nervous system rather than structural damage. Think of it as a disruption in the brain's network communication.
In this episode, we unravel the intricate symptoms associated with FND, ranging from visual disturbances like double vision and visual loss to balance issues, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include limb and joint pain, tremors, chest pain, racing heart rate, and cognitive difficulties such as memory and concentration problems. Research indicates that about one-third of patients visiting outpatient neurology clinics exhibit FND symptoms, often leading to extensive, inconclusive testing that leaves many seeking definitive answers.
The onset of FND is frequently linked to significant physical, emotional, or psychological events, causing trauma without clear medical or psychiatric explanations. Clinically, FND is likened to a "software problem," disrupting communication within the brain and body and affecting sensory, motor, and autonomic nervous systems.
Effectively managing FND involves focusing on regulating the autonomic nervous system. While there is no one-size-fits-all cure, various resources are available to help manage symptoms. Unlike traditional approaches that target specific impairments, FND treatment emphasizes how activities impact the nervous system.
Understanding the concept of internal reserves—akin to fuel in a car—is crucial. Daily obligations can deplete these reserves, making it challenging to maintain usual functionality. Replenishing emotional, physical, and cognitive reserves is essential to manage FND symptoms effectively. The journey of managing FND is comparable to climbing a summit filled with twists and turns; it's a gradual process requiring persistent effort and a holistic approach.
Remember, you’re not alone on this path. Building a support network of healthcare providers, support groups, and loved ones can offer the emotional and practical support needed during challenging times.
Additionally, we've prepared a downloadable workbook featuring 10 activities designed to help decrease FND symptoms. Don't forget to check the Show Notes for this and other valuable resources. Join us as we explore these aspects and more, shedding light on FND and fostering a community of understanding and support.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
CLICK HERE to download the 10 activities to help your symptoms..Take advantage of the Vestibular Disorders Association resources.Check out the video on Box Breathing.Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website, explore our blogs, and sign up for our newsletters.
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In this podcast episode, we explore the concept of the startle response—our body's natural reaction to perceived threats, which is a testament to our nervous system's efficiency. This automatic survival mechanism, part of the sympathetic or fight-or-flight response, serves us well in emergencies but can become problematic if constantly activated without recovery, especially in dizziness or vertigo.
The fear of vertigo or falling can keep individuals in a perpetual state of alertness, contributing to feelings of unsteadiness and anxiety. Clinical observations have noted that this heightened state can cause an exaggerated response to minimal stimuli, akin to a baby's Moro Reflex, indicating an overloaded nervous system.
The podcast also touches on the role of our central and peripheral visual fields, governed by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. It highlights how a narrowed focus on the central visual field, often a coping strategy for dizziness, can inadvertently impair our "rest and digest" parasympathetic response and visual-spatial processing, leading to maladaptive behaviors that affect our physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being.
We also examine the evolution and contemporary implications of the startle response—once vital for survival but now triggered by the overwhelming influx of information in modern life. Dr. Walter Cannon first described the fight or flight response in 1915, a concept expanded by Dr. Donahue in 2020 to include "freeze" as a response to acute stress. Recent studies, notably a 2022 University of Bristol research, highlight the cerebellum's central role in coordinating this freeze response. This "little brain," comprising only 10 percent of brain volume, houses up to 80 percent of the brain's neurons and is crucial for maintaining balance, coordinating movements, and facilitating new motor skills.
Beyond its physical functions, the cerebellum significantly influences emotions and decision-making in stressful situations. For healthcare professionals specializing in dizziness and imbalance disorders, understanding the cerebellum's function is essential for effectively diagnosing and treating these conditions. Dysfunction within this intricate network can lead to prolonged freeze responses, affecting eye movement and timely stepping, which are critical for navigating our environment safely.
Our rehabilitation approach aims to integrate these reflexes, helping patients recognize their presence without self-judgment. We've provided resources to assist in this process, including a handout with activities designed to merge the startle response and an eye movement exercise to facilitate the transition from a sympathetic to a parasympathetic nervous system state.
Below is a link to a video on reintegrating the Moro reflex and directories for professional support for those experiencing overwhelming anxiety or suicidal thoughts. Remember, seeking professional advice is a step toward understanding and managing your symptoms more effectively, ensuring that you're supported throughout your health journey.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
CLICK HERE to access a video on a stretch to integrate the Moro Reflex.The Suicide Prevention Hotline in the US is available 24/7 at 988/Online directories include Psychology Today, Good Therapy, and Better Health.Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website, explore our blogs, and sign up for our newsletters.
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In this episode of the I'm Just Dizzy podcast, we're focusing on Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), a prevalent inner ear disorder many have encountered. BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals, or otoconia, dislodge from their normal location in the inner ear, causing brief spells of vertigo with specific head movements. Despite the unsettling sensation, it's the most common cause of vertigo and can significantly impact daily life, sleep, and work. Interestingly, the risk of experiencing BPPV increases with age and may recur, with over 50% of individuals seeing a return of symptoms within three years.
Factors elevating the risk of BPPV include low vitamin D levels, older age, osteoporosis, hormonal changes, diabetes, head trauma, migraines, and inner ear fluid imbalances. Often, the exact cause remains unknown, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to enhance life quality and reduce fall risks.
The episode encourages listeners to use a handout provided for a visual understanding of BPPV. It highlights two primary indicators of BPPV: the brief duration of vertigo episodes, typically lasting less than 60 seconds, and its recurrence, underlining the transient yet impactful nature of the condition.
We also explore a key symptom of BPPV—the vertigo triggered by specific head movements such as rolling over in bed or tilting the head back. This condition, while often presenting as a spinning sensation for many, may manifest differently in individuals over 65, appearing more as a sense of unsteadiness rather than true spinning. This subtler presentation can complicate diagnosis in older adults, with an estimated 10% of those aged 65 or older possibly having undiagnosed BPPV.
Diagnosing BPPV involves specific tests targeting each of the semicircular canals, utilizing eye movement direction during these tests to pinpoint which canal is affected by the dislodged ear crystals. The direction of this nystagmus helps healthcare providers determine the exact location of the dislodgment, facilitating targeted and effective treatment. In cases of BPPV, these crystals detach from the utricle, leading to symptoms by either adhering to the cupula within the canals or moving freely within them.
In recent years, a new form of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), known as Type 2 BPPV or short arm canalithiasis, has been identified, characterized by positional dizziness without nystagmus. This discovery underscores the importance of familiarizing oneself with the inner workings of BPPV to understand why specific treatments are crucial. Treatment for BPPV varies depending on the type, with over 20 maneuvers designed to reposition dislodged ear crystals. The Epley maneuver is most commonly used for posterior canal BPPV, while the barbecue roll is preferred for horizontal canal cases. Anterior canal BPPV, though rare, is typically treated with variations of the Yacovino maneuver.
Treatment success can often be achieved in one to four visits, but complexity increases with atypical presentations or multiple canal involvement. Post-treatment precautions, like avoiding certain head positions, have been traditionally recommended, although recent research questions their necessity. Nonetheless, maintaining these precautions might still benefit some patients.
The downloadable handout is of immense help to follow along with this podcast to aid in the complex terminiology and provide a visual representation.
Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website for blogs and to sign up for our newsletters. Send us a comment or question @imjustdizzypodcast on Instagram or on Facebook.
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In this insightful episode, we dissect the delicate balance between essential medications and their potential ototoxic effects, which can harm the inner ear's hair cells vital for hearing and balance. Ototoxicity, arising from certain drugs, can lead to irreversible damage, manifesting as hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders. This condition underscores the importance of early detection and understanding the varied symptoms, including sudden or gradual onset of hearing difficulties, tinnitus, and dizziness, which can escalate with higher doses or prolonged use of these medications.
Over 200 drugs are known to be potentially ototoxic, spanning antibiotics like gentamicin and vancomycin, chemotherapy agents such as cisplatin—which affects up to 70% of pediatric patients—and loop diuretics like furosemide. These medications, crucial for treating life-threatening conditions, pose a significant risk to auditory and balance functions.
Addressing ototoxicity involves a multifaceted approach, including vigilant monitoring for symptoms, in-depth discussions with healthcare providers, and, where necessary, interventions like hearing aids, cochlear implants, or vestibular rehabilitation. Additionally, understanding the association between ototoxicity and peripheral neuropathy highlights the interconnected challenges of managing balance and sensation loss.
Diagnosis of ototoxicity leverages tests like Videonystagmography (VNG) and Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP) testing, assessing the ear's functionality and its impact on balance and hearing. Given the complexities of ototoxic drugs and the critical nature of their use, awareness and early intervention are paramount in mitigating risks and safeguarding quality of life.
Our commitment to guiding you through these challenges is unwavering, with a focus on informed decision-making and comprehensive support to manage the implications of ototoxicity on your health journey.
Bilateral loss of inner ear function can significantly impair balance, particularly in challenging environments like darkness or during rapid head movements. In such instances, teaching substitution strategies that leverage the visual system and neck muscles becomes essential.
Understanding the potential ototoxic effects of life-saving medications can provide a sense of clarity and control for patients, despite the difficulties posed by hearing and balance loss. Awareness and early detection are key, underscoring the importance of open communication with healthcare providers. Specialists such as ENTs, audiologists, and vestibular rehab experts play a vital role in managing and mitigating these effects. Though prevention of ototoxicity may not always be possible for those on essential medications, ongoing research and vigilant monitoring offer hope for minimizing its impact.
Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website for blogs and to sign up for our newsletters. Send us a comment or question @imjustdizzypodcast on Instagram or on Facebook.
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In this enlightening episode, we explore the pivotal role of communication between healthcare providers and patients experiencing dizziness. We unravel the complexities of articulating symptoms and preparing for discussions with medical professionals. Our focus is on enhancing understanding and ensuring clarity in these essential conversations.
To facilitate a deeper comprehension, we've created a downloadable handout—a valuable tool designed to guide you through the intricacies of describing your experiences of dizziness. This resource serves as a roadmap, assisting both you and your healthcare provider in navigating through the diagnostic process with greater precision.
We'll dissect a widely accepted methodology, fine-tuning it specifically for those dealing with either episodic or persistent dizziness. The handout meticulously details various potential causes and distinct characteristics of acute vestibular symptoms (AVS), such as prolonged dizziness, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, unsteadiness, nystagmus, and a heightened sensitivity to head movements. Symptoms range in duration—from several hours to days—with the most severe phase typically manifesting within the initial week. However, it's not uncommon for some individuals to experience residual effects lasting weeks or even months.
Our discussion categorizes the origins of AVS into two main groups: post-exposure (attributable to incidents like head trauma, drug intoxication, or barotrauma) and spontaneous (often linked to inner ear infections such as vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, or Ramsay Hunt syndrome, frequently triggered by the varicella-zoster virus). We also address the critical issue of misdiagnosis, highlighting conditions that are commonly confused with AVS, including ischemic strokes and other serious ailments like thiamine deficiency encephalitis or neoplastic syndromes.
A particular focus is given to the HINTS test—a reliable, yet underused, bedside examination aimed at distinguishing between central causes, such as stroke, and peripheral vestibular issues. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of lifestyle choices (e.g., smoking cessation, moderating alcohol consumption, engaging in regular physical activity) and effective stress management strategies in alleviating vestibular symptoms.
Join us as we offer insights and practical advice to empower you on your health journey, providing the tools to communicate effectively with your healthcare provider about dizziness. This episode promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand more about their vestibular health and how best to manage their symptoms.
Don't forget to download the additional handout included in this podcast!
Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website for blogs and to sign up for our newsletters. Send us a comment or question @imjustdizzypodcast on Instagram or on Facebook.
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In this episode, we explore the hidden yet profound impacts of chronic dizziness, an invisible illness. We aim to share personal stories, offer coping strategies, and help others understand this often misunderstood condition. Here are the key points discussed:
Forms of Dizziness:
Dizziness manifests in many ways: spinning, lightheadedness, off-balance, bobbing, rocking, fuzzy-headedness. Its invisible and fluctuating nature makes it especially challenging.The Invisible Struggle:
Chronic dizziness can feel isolating, both physically and emotionally, as its lack of visible indicators makes it difficult for others to understand the severity and impact on daily life.Misunderstanding and Misdiagnosis:
Dizziness is frequently misunderstood, with patients often seeing multiple healthcare providers before receiving a diagnosis. The journey to identifying the root cause can be arduous due to the myriad potential causes.Emotional Impact:
The struggle with chronic dizziness can lead to bouts of depression and anxiety, exacerbated by the challenge of having to "prove" one's illness.Hope and Small Steps:
Drawing from episode one, the need to foster hope is reiterated. Taking baby steps, borrowing hope from others, and celebrating small achievements can be instrumental in managing the condition.Spoon Theory:
The Spoon Theory, introduced by Christine Miserandino, is emphasized as a helpful metaphor for understanding energy limitations in those with chronic illness. Each small task depletes a "spoon," and managing these spoons is crucial.We close the episode by discussing the importance of empathy and support. Witnessing someone you care about struggle with symptoms that aren’t visibly apparent can be deeply challenging. The first step towards offering support is to gently inquire about how we might assist them, focusing on their needs rather than what seems 'wrong.' It's vital to approach such conversations with open-hearted empathy and compassion, asking open-ended questions that allow for a detailed response rather than ones that could inadvertently imply judgment.
Dealing with the often invisible condition of dizziness demands a high degree of adaptability, patience, and a supportive network. Incorporating strategies like mindfulness, wisely pacing activities, and actively seeking a sense of community can profoundly impact one’s ability to manage these symptoms. Indeed, finding solidarity in groups where members genuinely understand each other’s experiences can be incredibly empowering.
You can also download a handout to serve as a workbook exercise.
Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website for blogs and to sign up for our newsletters. Send us a comment or question @imjustdizzypodcast on Instagram or on Facebook.
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Today’s podcast takes a closer look into the multifaceted concept of hope, especially concerning living with chronic dizziness or unsteadiness. We started by defining hope as a delicate balance between acknowledging the reality of a challenging situation and maintaining the belief that things can improve. I emphasize that hope is not about ignoring reality or overly optimistic expectations but finding a middle ground that allows for realistic acknowledgment and optimism.
We explore three specific types of hope: illness-specific hope, transcendent hope, and utopian hope. The podcast also touched on the natural ebb and flow of a hopeful mindset, especially during symptom flare-ups, and mentioned the importance of understanding that despair and unrealistic optimism are normal emotions. This understanding can help in steering back towards a balanced perspective.
Next, I provided actionable steps to cultivate hope. These include taking small, manageable steps towards larger goals, focusing on controllable aspects of life, gaining knowledge about one's illness, connecting with supportive communities, engaging in positive reflection, and seeking professional guidance. These strategies aim to help build a resilient and hopeful mindset.
The episode closes with reflective hope exercises designed to encourage listeners to think deeply about personal definitions and experiences of hope. Listeners are encouraged to write down their thoughts and reflections, and a downloadable workbook was provided to aid in this process.
Listeners are also urged to internalize this message of hope and make it a part of their strategy for managing chronic dizziness, with the promise that nurturing hope could open doors to a brighter and more manageable future.
Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website for blogs and to sign up for our newsletters. Send us a comment or question @imjustdizzypodcast on Instagram or on Facebook.
