Vertigo is diagnosed through a series of neurological tests and the treatment can involve physical therapy and/or medications for the underlying problem or the symptoms.
Diagnosis
A doctor diagnoses vertigo and other forms of dizziness through several methods. He or she takes a patient's symptom history: how long does the vertigo last, what other symptoms occur, what are triggers, and what helps or worsens symptoms? Neurological examinations include vestibular and facial nerves/muscles testing, and coordination, balance, strength, and walking exams. There is a positional vertigo test where a patient's symptoms and how long it takes for them to occur indicate a central vestibular disorder or a peripheral vestibular disorder. An ENG is a neurological test that measures the vestibular system. Doctors can also perform bloodwork to rule out systemic disorders, such as an underactive thyroid or lupus. Finally, a doctor can use imaging tests such as MRIs and CTs to rule out brain aberrations.
Treatment
Treatment consists of medications and/or physical therapy, depending on whether the underlying cause of the vertigo can be treated. Ear infections, causing peripheral vestibular disorders, can be treated with antibiotics or, if recurring, surgery. Positional vertigo can be treated with Antivert (motion sickness medication) or Klonopin or Phenergan (an antihistamine.) All of these drugs can cause drowsiness. Meniere's disease, also a peripheral disorder, can be treated with diuretics or reducing sodium intake. Corticosteroids can also be prescribed to reduce inflammation in the ear. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is used to compensate for vertigo and improve balance, minimize dizziness, and maintain sufficient walking skills. Central vestibular disorders such as MS, migraines, strokes, and tumors can be treated with medications, surgery, and/or radiation.
****For more information on vertigo and MS, read Vertigo: The Whole Story, MS and Vertigo, and see the MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Suite.
****For related information, check out the Neurological ARTICLE INDEX and Blog.
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