How to Handle Dizziness and Vertigo
The Department of Medicine advises the elderly to pay attention to their health and prepare to cope with dizziness and vertigo, which can pose risks of danger or accidents.
Dr. Somsak Arksilp, the Director-General of the Department of Medicine, revealed that dizziness and vertigo are commonly found in the elderly, caused by various factors ranging from mild to severe. Any abnormalities in certain parts can immediately affect balance and body movement, leading to severe dizziness that feels like the surroundings are spinning.
Conditions that Cause Dizziness and Vertigo
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Postural Dizziness
This is the most common condition, resulting from degeneration of the inner ear. Dizziness occurs immediately when changing head positions, such as when lying down or getting up from bed, looking up, or bending down to pick something up. Symptoms last for a short time and then subside. -
Unilateral Vestibular Dysfunction
This condition arises from abnormalities in the inner ear, with unclear causes. It is characterized by severe spinning dizziness, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Symptoms can last from minutes to several hours. During episodes, patients should remain still and avoid moving their heads, as this can worsen dizziness. Additionally, patients may experience hearing loss and tinnitus. -
Other Conditions
Such as inner ear inflammation or insufficient blood flow to the brain.
Dr. Prabhan Phongkanitarn, Director of the Somdej Phra Sangharaja Yan Sangworn Institute for the Elderly, added that the elderly may feel dizzy as if objects around them are spinning, leading to nausea, vomiting, and loss of balance, which can result in danger or accidents.
When Experiencing Dizziness and Vertigo, Avoid Positions that Trigger Symptoms
- Quickly turning the head or changing positions rapidly.
- Avoid triggers that can cause dizziness, such as stress, anxiety, insufficient rest, alcohol consumption, or smoking.
- Do not engage in activities that pose a risk of accidents, such as driving or being in high places.
Simple Exercises to Alleviate Dizziness that Can Be Done Independently
- Start in a seated position with a straight back.
- Lie down on one side with your face or nose pointing up at an angle of about 45 degrees. Hold this position for at least 30 seconds until the dizziness subsides, then return to the seated position.
The elderly should take care of themselves to maintain good health, adjust their daily habits, and ensure adequate rest so that all systems in the body function normally, which will help keep them away from dizziness and vertigo.
