Dizziness and Vertigo after Concussion

Hey everyone, welcome back to my channel. Today, we're talking about a common but often frustrating symptom that can follow a concussion: vertigo.

So, what is post-concussion vertigo? Essentially, it's a feeling of spinning or dizziness that can occur after you've experienced a concussion. It can make you feel as if you’re walking on a boat, unsteady on your feet, off balance, room spinning or tilting sensation and even nausea. You can also have visual symptoms like blurred vision and difficulty focusing on moving objects. This happens because a concussion can disrupt the complex systems in your brain and inner ear that control your balance and sense of spatial orientation.

How long does it last? The duration of post-concussion vertigo can vary. For some people, it might clear up within a few days or weeks. For others, it can linger for months or even longer.

What can you do about it?

Vestibular exercises: These exercises forces your brain and inner ear to work together. Regular vestibular exercises can shorten the recovery time. A vestibular physical therapist can help with these exercises, but you can perform some of these exercises at home also. Watch our other video on home vestibular exercises to learn more.

Medications: There are no medications that improve the rate of recovery. Some antinausea medications like meclizine can suppress the symptoms temporarily, but excessive use can even slow down the recovery.

Lifestyle adjustments: Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, avoid dehydration. Also avoid alcohol or any sedative drugs. Keep some lights on when walking in the dark. Walking bare feet can also help with balance by adding extra sensory information from feet.

If you're experiencing any symptoms of vertigo after a head injury, it's crucial to see a neurologist. They can assess your condition and rule out any other serious causes of your dizziness.

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