Vertigo and Tinnitus are symptoms that are often associated with inner ear or neurological conditions. Both can be quite disruptive to a person’s quality of life.
In this podcast we will discuss some of the management and treatment options for both of these conditions.
Vertigo
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): Treated with repositioning manoeuvres like the Epley manoeuvre.
- Vestibular Therapy: Exercises to improve balance and reduce vertigo.
- Medications: Antihistamines, anti-nausea drugs, or vestibular suppressants. Vitamin B1, particularly in the form of benfotiamine, as well as vitamin B3 and magnesium can also be helpful.
Tinnitus
- Sound Therapy: White noise machines or hearing aids with masking features.
- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): Helps the brain ignore tinnitus sounds.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addresses stress or anxiety related to tinnitus.
- Medications: Antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs for severe cases.
If you suffer from vertigo or tinnitus, certain dietary and lifestyle adjustments can be helpful and these include:
- Avoid Triggers: Caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can exacerbate tinnitus.
- Exercise Regularly: Improves blood flow to the inner ear and reduces stress.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can affect inner ear function.
Listen to my interview with Brad Kirsten from Radio Cape Pulpit on 20 February 2025 to learn more. Listen to my next interview on Thursday at 7.45am.