Getting Rid Of Vertigo With The Epley Maneuver
Being dizzy is never fun, but if you experience it without warning and during normal times of the day, you know just how miserable it can make you. Vertigo is serious and can impede everyday life. You can’t drive or even function sometimes when you are dizzy. There are a number of things you can try to get rid of your symptoms, but one of the simplest and most effective is the Epley Maneuver.
What Is The Epley Maneuver?
This maneuver is an exercise you can do at home, in the office, or anywhere else to help you get rid of dizziness. If you have visited your ENT doctor and you know you have vertigo issues because of your inner ear, this maneuver can help alleviate the symptoms. The inner ear problem known as BPPV occurs when calcium crystals end up in the canals. When the crystals are dislodged and move around, it can make you feel dizzy. The Epley Maneuver can remove the crystals from the ear canals and alleviate your dizziness. If you have noticed that certain head movements make you dizzy, the Epley Maneuver could be a great way to find relief. Some people get relief right away while others still have symptoms for a few weeks. Either way, the Epley Maneuver is easy for anyone to try and it’s worth giving it a shot before you move on to medication or other elements to alleviate your vertigo.
Performing The Epley Maneuver
You may have to perform the maneuver twice if you have problems in both ears, but you will follow the same basic steps, just on the opposite side. First, you will sit on the floor or a bed with your legs straight in front of you. Turn your head at a 45-degree angle to the right. If your symptoms are worse when you turn your head to the right, then lie back and keep your head turned for the next 30 seconds. Next, turn your head to the left until it’s 45 degrees in the other direction and wait another half minute. Roll onto your side before you try to sit up and see how things feel. If your symptoms are worse on the left, then you should turn your head to the left first.
Succeeding With The Epley Maneuver
People who suffer from BPPV have the most success if they have an ENT doctor show them how to perform the moves. They may even practice in front of the doctor to ensure they have everything right. The symptoms might clear right away, but if not, you may need to do the moves again. If you have any neck or back injuries, you may not be able to move effectively to do the motions correctly. Check with your doctor before you aggravate an old injury. You don’t want to end up with another issue.
Getting ENT Help
If you already know you have BPPV, contact Breathe Clear for help with the Epley Maneuver. If you experience vertigo and you aren’t sure what’s causing it, we can help get to the bottom of your issues.