Flashes of vertigo?

[KateA2]

I have been having very short, but rather intense bouts of vertigo the last few days. I will just be sitting ( fortunately ) and the room just swings/ flips for a few or so nauseating seconds and my heart races, then calms in about 10-20 seconds. this has only happened once while standing and I was drawn into the wall suddenly like it was magnetized and me made of filings! wth? It takes my breathe away, is disorienting...but very, very short. I am just getting over a nasty cold, and I don't feel flairish. Anyone have similar? My ears do not hurt or feel congested either. thanks!

[KitOP]

Hi Kate,
I have bouts of the vertigo/dizziness. My neuro has coined it "The Dizzy Wizzys". Gotta love it.

When this started I was referred to an ENT who did a series of testing to make sure it wasn't my ears or anything associated thereof.

After all of the testing was done, it was determined that it was due to the MS. I was put on Ativan (Lorzepam) which seemed to help as it would calm the brain down.

I have since seen another ENT who specializes in patients with neurological issues that cause the vertigo, he took me off the pills on a daily basis. He is having me try some visualization techniques - sit down and close my eyes. Look at something off in the distance that is calming to me and makes me happy.

It seems that my vertigo is visually provoked. I have to be careful in certain lighting, and with sudden movements.

I was surprised how well this works for me. He also recommended maybe trying Tai Chi which I have not done. I only take the Ativan as needed with the more severe spells.

I would recommend talking to your neuro about the vertigo to make sure that there is nothing else going on and go from there.

Good Luck, I know how frustrating the vertigo is. It's not fun by any means.

[emily06]

Vertigo/dizziness surges

My dr. had prescribed that antivert but like most things with me it made the dizziness worse and me drowsy. I can't go to the mall anymore because of that vertigo/dizziness. So sad I used to LOVE my short outings to the mall! It was nice to get out and walk a few steps on my own. It felt so freeing. But no more. I keep hoping it will go away but the dr. doesn't offer me any definites.
I'll try some of your suggestions. Thanks.

[22cyclist]

Emily: Also ask for some Ativan or Valium to calm down the dizziness center in the brain. Sometimes this is all that works for CNS dizziness according to my MS specialist. Mine is from a brainstem lesion. The dizziness/vertigo are awful. I am sorry you have this. Do ask about the medication because the OTC stuff really does not work (what he gave you is OTC). Hope you feel better soon!

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

Lisa
Moderation Team

[KateA2]

thanks Kit0P I have an appointment with my neuro Friday to check everything out. She did call in a short 'script for Valium in the meantime if needed.