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Vertigo is the feeling that you’re dizzy and spinning, which may also include nausea and vomiting. Typically, an issue within the inner ear leads to vertigo. [1] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source However, it can have a variety of causes and triggers, including infections or damage in your inner ear, migraines, or moving your head too quickly. [2] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source If you have vertigo, you likely want to feel better fast. Fortunately, you may be able to relieve your vertigo using natural treatments. However, see your doctor if this is your first episode of vertigo, your vertigo keeps coming back, or you may need to treat an underlying medical condition. Additionally, check with your doctor before using natural treatments.
Steps
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Rest to help you recover. Get some rest during and after your attacks. Make sure you are resting as much as possible. While it is not always easy to find time out from your busy life, getting rest and relaxation can minimize the effects of vertigo. [3] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- If you feel dizzy at any point, sit or lie down immediately. Sudden movement—and sometimes any movement—can worsen the sensation of vertigo.
- Avoid bright lights if possible, such as those from a television, overhead lighting, or your phone, as these can aggravate your vertigo.
- Avoid driving a car or operating any heavy machinery. Additionally, avoid environments with flashing lights, such as video games, some movies, or dance clubs.
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Drink water to prevent dehydration. Certain research indicates that not drinking enough water can create potential issues for people suffering with a disorder like vertigo. [4] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Make sure you’re staying well-hydrated throughout the day to help prevent any unwanted symptoms.
- Researchers have found that a daily hydration goal of around 9.3 cups (2.2 L) is enough for women/people assigned female at birth, and that a hydration goal of around 12.5 cups (3 L) is enough for men/people assigned male at birth. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
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Take over-the-counter motion-sickness medication. Taking motion sickness medicine, such as meclizine (Bonine) or dimenhydrinate (Original Formula Dramamine), which are available over-the-counter, can relieve dizziness. Follow the directions on the back of the box for dosing, or talk to your doctor to get a specialized dosage recommendation. Then, take the medication exactly as directed. [6] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- Check the back of the box for the active ingredient in the medication.
- You should consult your doctor before self-medicating for dizziness. They will be able to tell you what medication and what dosage is best for you.
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Try ginger to help manage your vertigo symptoms. Some research shows that powdered ginger can be used to help with vertigo symptoms. [7] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Ginger can be consumed in food, in your tea, or you can even munch on it raw. [8] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
- Ginger can also soothe nausea, a common side effect of vertigo.
- Add a piece of raw ginger to boiling water to make ginger tea.
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Do the Epley maneuver to find your balance. Also known as the canalith repositioning procedure, the Epley maneuver helps to reset the balance mechanisms in the inner ear by repositioning the particles in the vestibular organs (the balance organs). These particles can get trapped in the inner ear, which causes dizziness. You can do this at home, although it should be demonstrated by your healthcare professional before you undertake it yourself as it does require some quick movements. Consider asking a friend or family member to act as your assistant so that your head lands in the right spot each time. Here's how to do it:
- Sit on a bed.
- Turn your head 45° by looking to the right.
- Lie back quickly and place your shoulders on the pillow. Your head will be lower than your shoulders and you will still be looking 45° to the right. Remain in this position for 30 seconds.
- After the 30 seconds, turn your head 90° to the left (so it’s facing 45° to the left). Do not raise your head during this movement. Remain in this position for 30 seconds.
- Turn your entire body and your head another 90° to the left and wait for 30 seconds. At this point, you should be lying on your left side. Your head should still be lower than your shoulders.
- Some people find that this works right away, while others need to do it several times for it to be effective. [9] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
Find relief from post-surgery vertigo attacks.
"After having mastoid ear surgery, I suffered horrible vertigo spells that left me dizzy and nauseated. This guide recommended a honey and apple cider vinegar drink that tastes great and really calms my nausea. It's been a lifesaver for getting through those debilitating dizzy spells."
- Renee K.
Recognize vertigo attack symptoms in a loved one.
"When my 75-year-old father started having intermittent vertigo attacks, reading this article helped me identify all his symptoms — dizziness, vomiting, and loss of balance. Knowing exactly what was happening let me care for him properly during spells and get his doctor accurate details."
- Ravi K.
Overcome age barriers to treat vertigo.
"At 75, I struggled to do the Epley and Half Somersault exercises to reposition the inner ear crystals, causing my vertigo. But this guide explained just why those awkward movements are so critical for people like me. It gave me the motivation I needed to push past frustration and keep trying the exercises despite my age. I've finally seen improvement!"
- Barbara K.
Validate effective home remedies.
"For years, I've drank ginger lemon tea when vertigo episodes strike. I was relieved when this article specifically recommended that home remedy, along with helpful info on diet, sleep, and stress reduction. My instincts were right — simple lifestyle changes make a difference!"
- Aida G.
Did you know that wikiHow has collected over 365,000 reader stories since it started in 2005? We’d love to hear from you! Share your story here
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Try the Half Somersault maneuver to feel less dizzy. This is another good exercise and, unlike the Epley maneuver, does not require an assistant. One study found that patients who did both exercises experienced symptomatic relief but reported less dizziness and fewer complications when doing just the Half Somersault. You will likely need to do this exercise multiple times before you experience some relief. Follow this procedure: [10] X Research source
- Get down on your knees and look up at the ceiling for a few seconds.
- Touch the floor with your head. Tuck your chin slightly towards your chest so your head moves toward your knees. Wait for the vertigo to subside (about 30 seconds).
- Turn your head in the direction of your affected ear (i.e., if you feel dizzy on your left side, turn your head so that it faces your left elbow). Keep your head in this position for 30 seconds.
- Then, raise your head so it is level with your back while you're on all fours; your spine should look like a straight line. Keep your head at that 45° angle. Stay 30 seconds in this position.
- Raise your head and back so that you are upright again, but keep your head tilted to the shoulder of the side you're working on. Take your time to stand up.
- Rest 15 minutes before repeating a second time or doing the other side.
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Practice the Brandt-Daroff regimen to help relieve your vertigo. These exercises involve the head and the muscles of the neck and can be performed at home without a physician's supervision. The repeated head movements of this regimen help you habituate to the experience of vertigo by dispersing the particles in the vestibular organs in the inner ear. Perform the following movements: [11] X Research source
- Begin in an upright, seated position. Quickly lie down on one side with your nose pointed up at about a 45° angle. Stay in this position for about 30 seconds (or until the vertigo is gone). Then, get back in your seated position. Do this exercise on the other side.
- This exercise is most effective if you do multiple repetitions a day over 2 weeks.
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Maintain a fixed gaze to fight dizziness. Staring at one point can help you overcome dizziness. It helps improve your vision and maintain focus while your head is moving. Dancers, when doing turns, are told to "spot." This is where they keep their eyes focused on one spot for as long as they can as their body rotates. This lets them spin without becoming dizzy and is the same principle that can be applied here. Focus on a spot straight ahead during your dizziness spell and the dizziness will likely subside. Here's how to practice stabilizing your gaze:
- Look straight ahead and focus on something (like a small colored square or button) held at eye level in front of you.
- Move your head from side to side, all the while maintaining your gaze on the target. Slowly increase the speed of your head movement. Make sure your target is still in focus and is not just a blur. If you start to feel too dizzy, slow down. Try to do this for 30 seconds, completing 3 reps total.
- Switch to nodding your head up and down in 30-second increments, doing 3 total reps.
- Keep working on it until you can do this exercise 3 times every day. [12] X Research source
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Get enough sleep so you're well-rested. Try to get a full night's sleep starting at about the same time every night and waking around the same time each morning. Though everyone's sleep needs are different, most adults do best with at least 7 hours of sleep. Children and teens may require more sleep. [13] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
- If you're working on trying to fall into a more consistent sleep pattern, wait until bedtime to sleep and avoid napping during the day. Naps are a great way to recharge your batteries when you have a stable sleep schedule, but they are counter-productive when trying to change sleeping habits.
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Maintain a healthy diet. The Anti-Inflammatory Diet can be particularly useful to reduce inflammation. This diet also provides all the essential vitamins and minerals, particularly if you eat a variety of foods. The general principles of the Anti-Inflammatory diet (similar to the Mediterranean diet) include the following: [14] X Trustworthy Source Arthritis Foundation Main organization devoted to arthritis support and education Go to source
- Keep your food as close to its original or natural form as possible. This means that you should try to limit any processed or prepared foods and cook from scratch as frequently as you can.
- Reduce your intake of salt.
- Limit your consumption of junk foods and processed snacks, such as chips, cookies, cakes, and crackers.
- Use olive oil as your main cooking oil since it's full of healthy fats. [15] X Trustworthy Source Arthritis Foundation Main organization devoted to arthritis support and education Go to source
- Avoid fried or fatty foods, like onion rings, French fries, hamburgers, and hotdogs.
- Limit red meats and eat only skinless poultry or fish. [16] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
- Increase the amount of fish in your diet. Excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids include salmon, tuna, sardines, and anchovies. [17] X Trustworthy Source Arthritis Foundation Main organization devoted to arthritis support and education Go to source
- Increase all fruits, berries, and vegetables. Include brightly colored berries and fruits and leafy greens, such as Swiss chard, spinach, beet and mustard greens, and kale. You should also try to include broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, which have anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventing properties. [18] X Trustworthy Source National Cancer Institute An agency in the National Institutes of Health focused on cancer research and patient support Go to source
- Include onions in your diet as these contain anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting substances. [19] X Trustworthy Source Arthritis Foundation Main organization devoted to arthritis support and education Go to source Garlic is also known to have anti-inflammatory qualities. [20] X Research source
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Exercise regularly for good overall health and stress management. Everyone's exercise needs are different. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that adults get at least 2 and a half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (like brisk walking) per week, along with 2 days of moderate strength-training exercise (like weight lifting). [21] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
- While this exercise may not cure your vertigo specifically, it will contribute to your overall health and well-being, much like the dietary changes suggested above.
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Do yoga to relieve your stress. Yoga can help promote relaxation, which can help with treating vertigo at home. Other relaxation strategies like meditation and guided imagery can be helpful. [22] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- Yoga is great for the mind and body. Your stress levels will be lowered, your muscles will be more relaxed, and you may experience fewer episodes of vertigo to boot.
- If you are experiencing vertigo, however, you should let your yoga instructor know before class so that they can offer you modifications for poses as needed.
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See your doctor if this is your first experience of vertigo. If you’ve never had vertigo before, you need to get prompt treatment to make sure you’re okay. Your doctor can make sure that your symptoms are vertigo and figure out what’s causing it. Go to your doctor’s office, an urgent care center, or the emergency room to get checked out. [23] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Try not to worry, because you’re probably okay. However, it’s best to see your doctor to make sure you don’t need additional treatment.
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Get emergency medical care if you have other severe symptoms. In rare cases, vertigo can be a sign of a medical emergency, such as a stroke. Call emergency services or have someone take you to the nearest emergency room if you develop new or severe vertigo along with other symptoms, such as poor coordination, slurred speech, or vision double vision. [24] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
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Talk to your doctor if your vertigo doesn’t improve. With treatment, your vertigo symptoms should be manageable. However, it’s possible that your episodes will continue to occur. This might require additional treatment. Visit your doctor to find out what you can do to improve your condition. [25] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- Tell your doctor about the treatments you’ve already tried to treat your condition.
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Work with your doctor to find the underlying cause of your vertigo. Sometimes vertigo is caused by a medical condition, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis from your doctor. They’ll rule out potential causes for vertigo to make sure you’re getting the right treatment. Visit your doctor to get a full medical workup to find the underlying cause of recurring vertigo. [26] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
- Your doctor may offer you treatment for your medical condition.
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Check with your doctor before using natural treatments. While herbal remedies and natural treatments are generally safe, they aren’t right for everyone. They can interact with medications you’re taking or worsen certain medical conditions. Talk to your doctor before you use any natural treatments to make sure they’re right for you. [27] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
- Tell your doctor which treatments you plan to take and that you’re hoping to treat your vertigo. Additionally, remind them of the medications and supplements you’re already taking.
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Expert Q&A
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QuestionHow should I get shampooed at the salon? The last time I had my hair shampooed there I ended up needing to go to the hospital and I was told I have BPPV.Dr. Lisa Bryant is Licensed Naturopathic Physician and natural medicine expert based in Portland, Oregon. She earned a Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon and completed her residency in Naturopathic Family Medicine there in 2014.Tilting your head back into the wash basin could have triggered the BPPV. I recommend washing your hair at home in the shower in an upright position and declining the shampooing at the salon.
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QuestionHow should I stop feeling discomfort when dizziness overwhelms me during vertigo fits at my house?Dr. Lisa Bryant is Licensed Naturopathic Physician and natural medicine expert based in Portland, Oregon. She earned a Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon and completed her residency in Naturopathic Family Medicine there in 2014.I've seen good results with the suggestions listed above, including the Epley maneuver, ginger capsules, electrolytes, and the anti-inflammatory diet.
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Tips
- Vertigo is the feeling of dizziness and spinning. It is not the same thing as light-headedness. With vertigo, people either feel as if they are moving or that the room or environment they are in is actually spinning around them. [28] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to sourceThanks
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Warnings
- While vertigo is usually not a sign of a serious health problem, dizziness can in rare cases be an early symptom of a stroke. [29] X Research source Always see your doctor if your vertigo symptoms don’t clear up relatively quickly with self-care, or if you have other worrisome symptoms, such as paralysis or weakness in any part of your body, slurred speech, or confusion. [30] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to sourceThanks
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References
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001420.htm
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dizziness/symptoms-causes/syc-20371787
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000692.htm
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10682806/
- ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20356431/
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000692.htm
- ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3537898/
- ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits
- ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/home-epley-maneuver
- ↑ https://news.cuanschutz.edu/news-stories/two-home-exercises-treat-vertigo
- ↑ https://www.uhs.nhs.uk/Media/UHS-website-2019/Patientinformation/Audiology/Brandt-Daroff-exercises-to-treat-BPPV-2839-PIL.pdf
- ↑ https://www.umc.edu/Healthcare/ENT/Patient-Handouts/Adult/Otology/Vestibular_Exercises.html
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/sleep-and-heart-health.html
- ↑ http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/anti-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory-diet.php
- ↑ http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/anti-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory-diet.php
- ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anti-inflammatory-diet
- ↑ http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/anti-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory-diet.php
- ↑ http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/cruciferous-vegetables-fact-sheet
- ↑ https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/anti-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory-diet
- ↑ https://www.vcuhealth.org/news/4-health-benefits-of-garlic
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/adults.html
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000692.htm
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vertigo/symptoms-causes/syc-20370055
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001432.htm
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001432.htm
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001432.htm
- ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/herbal-medicine
- ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001432.htm
- ↑ https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000002229
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/signs-symptoms/index.html
About This Article
Article Summary
X
To cure vertigo at home, try eating foods that can help relieve the symptoms, such as almonds, ginger, and lemon. Alternatively, try an over-the-counter motion-sickness medication, like meclizine. Additionally, drink 8 glasses of water a day since dizziness can be caused by dehydration. You can also try some simple exercises, like doing head rotations to release your neck muscles. To learn how to change your sleep patterns to help cure vertigo, keep reading!
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Reader Success Stories
- "At 75, I struggled to do the Epley and Half Somersault exercises to reposition the inner ear crystals, causing my vertigo. But this guide explained just why those awkward movements are so critical for people like me. It gave me the motivation I needed to push past frustration and keep trying the exercises despite my age. I've finally seen improvement!" ..." more
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"At 75, I struggled to do the Epley and Half Somersault exercises to reposition the inner ear crystals, causing my vertigo. But this guide explained just why those awkward movements are so critical for people like me. It gave me the motivation I needed to push past frustration and keep trying the exercises despite my age. I've finally seen improvement!"
..."
more
"When my 75-year-old father started having intermittent vertigo attacks, reading this article helped me identify all his symptoms — dizziness, vomiting, and loss of balance. Knowing exactly what was happening let me care for him properly during spells and get his doctor accurate details."
..."
more
"After having mastoid ear surgery, I suffered horrible vertigo spells that left me dizzy and nauseated. This guide recommended a honey and apple cider vinegar drink that tastes great and really calms my nausea. It's been a lifesaver for getting through those debilitating dizzy spells."
..."
more
"For years, I've drank ginger lemon tea when vertigo episodes strike. I was relieved when this article specifically recommended that home remedy, along with helpful info on diet, sleep, and stress reduction. My instincts were right — simple lifestyle changes make a difference!"
..."
more
"It was not too complicated, and relieved some of my fears. I still don't know where my vertigo actually came from. Thanks, though."
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