Chronic Dizziness

People experience dizziness at some point in their lives. This is a common complaint which usually just goes out on its own. However, when dizziness is frequent and severe, it is already chronic. And this can be pretty serious, one that needs proper intervention.

Understanding Chronic Dizziness

Chronic dizziness has really no specific meaning. It is however often used to refer to conditions like vertigo, lightheadedness, disequilibrium and anxiety.

• Vertigo is a form of dizziness felt even if you are not moving. The common description of vertigo is that you are steady and it feels like your environment is spinning. Many of the people who complain about experiencing recurring dizziness is due vertigo. This can be caused by infection, a problem in the vestibular system of the inner ear, Meniere’s disease, Dandy’s syndrome or tumor.
• Lightheadedness is also known as syncope. It is the kind of dizziness that makes people feel like they are about to faint. One experiences this when breathing deeply or when standing up quickly. This can be caused by heart disease, excitement, high temperature, alcohol consumption or hyperventilation.
• Disequilibrium is a chronic dizziness that makes people feel like they are unable to walk unsteadily, like they are going to fall. The common causes of disequilibrium include brain disorder, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and cervical spondylosis.
• Anxiety. When people get anxious, depressed, scared, worried or frightened, they feel dizzy. This is the body’s normal reaction. However, when the dizziness is chronic, it may be due to anxiety disorder, a kind of phobia or even depression.

Physical Therapy as Treatment for Chronic Dizziness

Chronic dizziness is treated according to the underlying cause. There are certain medications that help treat dizziness.  However, the safest treatment for chronic dizziness, regardless of its type, is physical therapy. Generally, physical therapy helps improve one’s balance.

Physical therapists that are trained in vestibular rehabilitation can provide utmost care and treatment for people suffering from chronic dizziness. After thorough evaluation, the therapist will create exercise programs and other PT tools and techniques to address individual issues. With proper supervision from a professional, the person will be able to perform the exercises safely and accordingly.

Physical Therapy Exercises

The exercises given are designed to improve one’s balance. They are based on the principles of habituation, substation and adaptation. They work by promoting postural stability, recovery of gaze and increased vestibular function. Other types of exercises may also be given to address other concerns like improving strength, flexibility and stability.

When to Begin and for How Long

The safest answer is to start getting physical therapy as soon as possible. However, studies show that people who get therapy later than they could have still benefits from it. Moreover, the age of the patient is not a major factor in the effectiveness of the therapy. Further, the duration of the treatment generally depends on the individual’s pathology. Throughout the recovery period, the person will

Be assessed by the therapist to check how he/she is doing or responding. Depending on the results of these assessments, the therapist may recommend advanced exercises or other methods.

Get Professional Help

Chronic dizziness is not laughing matter. Do not wait for things to escalate before seeking treatment. Seek immediate professional help. Frequent dizziness might be a sign of a deeper, more serious health or psychological problem. It is always better to be one step ahead than act when it’s already too late.

Let the professionals at GSC Therapy Services help. Our therapists are well-trained and experienced in helping people with chronic dizziness. They conduct individualized tests and assessments, prescribe the right exercises and techniques, and work with you all the way until you feel and get better. Make an appointment with us today.

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