Vertigo- it’s not just a classic horror film. Nearly ¼ of seniors (age 72+) in the United States experience some form of dizziness. We all feel dizzy from time to time, but vertigo can raise challenges that leave an older adult isolated or unable to leave their home. Vertigo can be upsetting or jarring for older adults and can sometimes result in nausea or vomiting. Unfortunately, our risk of vertigo and dizziness increases as we age. Vertigo or dizziness also lead to an increased risk of falls. A study found that older adults who experienced dizziness were more than 60% more likely to have a future fall.  

 

What is Vertigo? 

The Michigan Ear Institute defines Vertigo as “the sensation that you or your surroundings are moving or spinning or whirling.” While sometimes used interchangeably, dizziness refers to feeling off-balance. On the other hand, vertigo is a specific sensation of spinning or moving.  

 

Causes of Vertigo 

• Inner ear issues 
• Low iron or Anemia 
• Low blood sugar 
• Dehydration  
• Certain medications, including anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, sedatives, and medication for low blood pressure can cause dizziness as a side effect.   
• Stroke 
• Some neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s Disease or Multiple Sclerosis.  
• Poor circulation  
• Diabetes 
• Head injuries  

 

Vertigo Safety Tips 

• Move slowly when going from a seated to a standing position or when turning your head.  
• Sit or lie down as soon as Vertigo begins.  
• Lie down in a quiet room with dimmed lights or darkness. 
• Use a cane or other walking devices to prevent falls.  

 

Vertigo Symptoms 

During or after an episode of Vertigo (which usually last between mere seconds to a few days), an older adult may experience some of the following symptoms: 

• Dizziness 
• Increased sweating 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Ringing in the ear/Tinnitus  
• Feeling as though one or both ears are full 
• Double vision  

 

Dangerous Symptoms 

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Dizziness or vertigo could be a sign of a stroke or other potentially life-threatening medical events. 

• Fever of 103 degrees or higher 
• Heart palpitations/heart racing 
• Fainting  
• Severe headache 
• Vertigo lasting more than a few minutes 
• Vision changes 
• Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg 
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing  
• Pain in the chest or neck 
• Confusion  
• Uncontrollable vomiting 
• Seizures  
• If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other stroke risk factors.  

 

Treatment  

• Balance exercises 
• Medication (e.g., anti-anxiety medication, medication for migraines, or water pills).  
• Rehabilitation or physical therapy 
• In severe cases, antibiotic injections into the inner ear may be needed.  

 

Resources 

• Facebook and online support groups via the Vestibular Disorder Association 
• Michigan Medicine Neurology Clinic (Taubman Center) (734) 936-9020 
• Michigan Medicine Balance Vestibular Testing & Rehabilitation (734) 936-8051 
• Trinity Health Physical Therapy (734) 712-8674 (also have Chelsea office) 
• Trinity Health Outpatient Physical Therapy (734) 712-3565 
• Better Balance via Trinity Health 
• Better My Meds– offers medication management and can help clients determine whether their medicines put them at risk for falls or vertigo.
• Catholic Charities Washtenaw County’s Seniors for Healthy Choices program goes over medication management, questions to ask your doctor, and how medication effects our bodies as we age. Email Lisa at [email protected] or call (734) 971-9718, ext. 453 for more information.