Vertigo Treatment

How is Vertigo Diagnosed?

Diagnosing vertigo starts with identifying the spinning sensation and what triggers it. The doctor may ask about head movements, balance problems, nausea, hearing changes, ringing in the ears, headaches and previous ear or neurological conditions. A physical examination may include checking eye movements, coordination, walking and balance to identify signs of an inner-ear or neurological problem.

Based on the symptoms and examination findings, the doctor may recommend additional tests such as the Dix-Hallpike test, Fukuda-Unterberger test, head impulse test, hearing tests, vestibular assessments and some imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to determine the underlying cause.

How is Vertigo Treated Based on Its Condition?

Vertigo treatment varies from one person to another, depending on their specific conditions. The table below outlines the best approach for each underlying vertigo cause: 

Types of Vertigo and Their Treatment

Each type of vertigo may need a different treatment approach, such as:

Other Treatments for Vertigo

Not every type of vertigo needs long-term medication, as some conditions respond better to physical techniques and rehabilitation. Treatment may include the Epley maneuver, which uses controlled head and body movements to reposition displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear. Another key option is vestibular rehabilitation, which uses balance and eye exercises to help the brain adapt to dizziness. 

In case you have vertigo from conditions like Ménière's disease, making changes to your diet, such as eating less salt and avoiding your personal triggers, can help manage your symptoms. Surgery is only considered in rare cases when symptoms are very severe.

Oral Medications for Vertigo Treatment

Common oral medication options to treat vertigo include:

• Cinnarizine: It blocks histamine receptors in the brain and inner ear. It is used for motion sickness and spinning attacks.

• Betahistine: It may improve blood flow in the inner ear and help reduce inner-ear pressure.

• Meclizine / Dimenhydrinate: These medicines suppress abnormal signals from the inner ear and help reduce nausea.

• Diazepam: It calms activity in the central nervous system and may provide short-term relief during severe vertigo attacks.

• Ginkgo Biloba Extract: It may improve microcirculation in the brain and inner-ear structures. It may be used for chronic dizziness and mild imbalance.

• Antihistamines: They can help lessen spinning sensations and nausea during sudden episodes.

• Antiemetics: Help control nausea and vomiting that can happen with severe vertigo.

• Anticholinergics: May provide short-term relief from dizziness and movement-related symptoms.

• Benzodiazepines: They are used for severe symptoms in certain cases to slow down brain activity.

• Diuretics: Doctors may prescribe diuretics to some people with Ménière's disease to reduce the risk of recurrent attacks.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatments for Vertigo

Ayurvedic and alternative measures for vertigo treatment are as follows:

• Ginkgo: Commonly used for circulation-related concerns and help with ringing in the ears.

• Triphala: Traditionally used to relieve symptoms associated with vertigo. 

• Vacha: The roots of the Vacha plant are traditionally used in Ayurveda for managing vertigo. They may be recommended to relieve symptoms such as dizziness and imbalance.

• Guduchi Kasaya: A traditional Ayurvedic preparation that provides antioxidant support to the nervous system. 

• Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is widely used in Ayurveda for various health concerns associated with vertigo. It is also traditionally believed to support oxygen flow and overall well-being.

Note: Avoid herbal preparations promoted as a cure for vertigo without consulting a healthcare professional.

Home Care for Managing Vertigo

Managing vertigo at home involves some necessary precautions, such as:

• Sit down or lie down as soon as you feel an episode starting.

• Try acupuncture to help with the recovery.

• Move your head slowly whenever you change positions.

• Hold onto something stable while you walk.

• Make sure the floor is clean and that walkways are clear of any obstacles.

• Do the balance exercises your doctor has recommended.

Latest Treatment for Vertigo in India

Recent approaches to vertigo management place greater emphasis on identifying the specific balance disorder rather than relying only on medicines to suppress dizziness. Canalith repositioning remains an important treatment for BPPV, while vestibular rehabilitation is increasingly used for persistent imbalance following inner ear disorders. Better vestibular testing and specialist rehabilitation can also help doctors tailor treatment according to the cause and pattern of symptoms.

How Long Does Vertigo Treatment Take?

Some vertigo conditions improve quickly, while others require longer-term management. The recovery period of vertigo-related treatments is as follows:

Vertigo Treatment Side Effects

Common medicine-related side effects in the case of vertigo include:

• Dry mouth

• Reduced alertness

• Headache

• Dependence on certain medications

• Blurred vision

• Stomach upset

• Difficulty concentrating

• Drowsiness or sleepiness

• Masking of symptoms, which may delay accurate diagnosis

• Delayed recovery when used for too long

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Vertigo

Making simple changes to your daily routine can help manage vertigo symptoms, including:

• Get adequate sleep.

• Drink enough fluids.

• Avoid alcohol during active symptoms.

• Identify and avoid personal migraine triggers.

• Follow the dietary advice given for Ménière's disease.

• Stand up slowly after sitting or lying down.

• Remain physically active when symptoms allow.

• Follow prescribed balance exercises.

Factors That Can Worsen Symptoms of Vertigo

Vertigo symptoms may worsen because of the following factors:

• Sudden head movements or quick position changes

• Rolling over in bed or getting up too quickly

• Dehydration

• Skipping meals or blood sugar changes

• High-sodium foods

• Excess caffeine

• Alcohol

• Stress and anxiety

• Poor sleep or fatigue

• Bright or flickering lights

• Screens and visually busy environments

• Loud or crowded surroundings

• Intense exercise or heavy lifting

• Certain migraine-triggering foods

Vertigo Treatment Cost

The average cost of treating vertigo varies according to its cause, the specialist involved and the investigations or rehabilitation required. Epley maneuver treatment costs ₹900 to ₹2,500 per session, while Semont maneuver treatments usually cost between ₹1,000 and ₹3,000 for each session. Antiemetic medicines range from ₹500 to ₹1,500, depending on the type and how long you need them. If surgery is needed for severe or recurring cases, the cost can range from ₹80,000 to ₹1.5 lakh, depending on the hospital and the complexity of the surgery.

Does Health Insurance Cover Vertigo Treatment in India?

Yes, health insurance may cover vertigo treatment when the policy covers the underlying cause and the treatment required. If in-patient hospitalisation is required, associated expenses may be covered under the standard plan. Some plans may also cover pre- and post-hospitalisation costs, including follow-up consultations, prescribed medicines and diagnostic tests. If vertigo is linked to a pre-existing condition, a waiting period of up to 3 years may also apply.

However, treatment taken at home, routine medicines, outpatient consultations or certain day-care procedures may be covered when the policy includes OPD cover. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a health insurance plan with a sum insured of at least ₹5 lakh - ₹10 lakh for better financial security.