Talk about bad timing. We are heading to Louisiana early tomorrow morning for Jim's memorial service. And wouldn't you know, Tuesday afternoon my head started spinning on me. (For those that don't know, I was diagnosed with Vertigo last year.) I spent most of yesterday flat on my back as still as I could be. When John got home, he helped me do my head exercises hoping to get it straight. It helped a little, but today I am home again and waiting for my doctor appointment. At least today I am not spending the day laying down as there is laundry to finish and packing to do.
For those not familiar with Vertigo, here is a quick easy description. In our inner ears we have tiny crystals that act as balances for our equalibrium. For some people, these crystals come loose and just "float" causing a spinning sensation. Sometimes it is very mild and goes away in a few hours, others it can last a couple of days. My longest episode has been seven days, although it was very mild and I could still function pretty normal. In more severe cases, like the one I am experiencing now, an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist can do some special exercises with the head to get the crystals back where they belong. Of course, the last time I had to go see him, I had to wear a cervical collar for two days to keep my head straight. Wasn't that fun?!?! I told John once that it was like having too much to drink without the drinking.
5 comments:
Oh my! It must run in the family or something. I have struggled with this for years. My worst year was my sophomore year of high school though. I still have episodes but they contribute it to my thyroid as the medication for vertigo did not help. They never told me there were exercises you could do to help alleviate it. It really is the worst when you have to lay so still for fear if you move one cm you will throw up from the spinning.
I am praying you start to get some relief soon so you can have good travels.
Is your head still spinning? After all, the Red Wings just beat the Stars 2 games in a row. :-)
Remember Dad - I told you the Stars probably wouldn't get past the Wings, so you can keep digging to no avail. :)
Paula - the next time you see your doctor, ask him/her to show you how to do Epley Manuevers (sp). They really do help when you can do them. I couldn't on Wednesday as I was already throwing up from the dizziness and couldn't hold the positions long enough.
I've also had problems with vertigo. At least that's what the doctor called it. My worst episode was 4 days. I haven't had an episode in a couple of years. Good to know that it does run in the family. I thought there was something wrong with me. :) Hopefully by now you're feeling better.
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