Dear Dr. SerVaas: I have a problem for which I can find no help. I woke up one morning three years ago with dizziness and have been dizzy since that moment. No one can suggest a cause. I have seen excellent doctors in the fields of neurology, allergy, immunology, endocrinology, and autoimmune diseases. An MRI taken at the onset of the problem showed no abnormalities. Extensive testing by an audiologist showed no involvement of the ear.
Ramona A. Scheuermann
Treasure Island, Florida
Dear Reader: You didn't mention having gone to an ophthalmologist. There might be a possibility that an eye condition is causing the dizziness.
Data published in July show that an at-home treatment helps relieve a common cause of dizziness resulting from the build-up of crystals in the inner ear.
In a study involving 70 patients with recurring bouts of dizziness, 95 percent of participants who performed a certain set of head and body movements no longer had symptoms, the authors report.
During a medical exam to evaluate vertigo, patients are taught how to perform the modified Epley procedure (MEP) correctly. In general, MEP is repeated three times daily until symptoms resolve for at least 24 hours.
People with benign paroxysmal vertigo experience a spinning sensation or nausea with sudden head movements. Symptoms occur when crystals, or ear rocks, float freely within the inner ear canal. MEP helps reposition the particles to restore equilibrium.
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