ICU – “I SEE YOU” PODCAST
Visually Induced Dizziness
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For many people who have a vestibular disorder, a trip to the grocery store can turn into a battle with dizziness. The bright lights, rows of shelves, patterns on the floor, and crowds of people can trigger symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and light-headedness. Bending down or turning your head to scan for the items you need. All this can take a lot of energy to navigate. Visually induced dizziness is an umbrella term for a group of symptoms. It can also be referred to as visual vertigo, space and motion discomfort, supermarket syndrome, or visual vestibular mismatch. Researchers think it is caused by a conflict between different parts of the brain’s balance system.
This episode of the ICU podcast features Elizabeth, who struggles with visual disturbances as a result of her vestibular disorder, and Dr. Morgan Kriz, a physical therapist who specializes in treating this condition.
Guests
Elizabeth Schneider has been living with a Vestibular Disorder for 21 years. She was first diagnosed at age 36, when she lost her balance and experienced severe visual disturbances. She had to retire from her job as a Registered Nurse because she could no longer work due to her vestibular symptoms. Elizabeth knows what it’s like to struggle with career, money problems, and family stress, especially when you first get sick. Like many, she had to navigate through the medical system to get help, which is a taxing effort at best. She decided to become a VeDA Ambassador to raise awareness about this diagnosis and to help others access the necessary support.
Dr. Morgan Kriz has been practicing vestibular physical therapy for more than 10 years. She understands the journey that many vestibular warriors endure to obtain a proper diagnosis, find a supportive care team, and feel like they are on the right track to regain their lives. She is co-owner of Vestibular Therapy Specialists, with clinics in Seattle, WA and Bend, OR, where she resides with her family. She is also a consultant for Blue Marble Gaming Company, which is developing online home programs and protocols for Vestibular Rehabilitation. She’s a content creator and presenter for Vestibular IQ, a Continuing Education Platform for healthcare providers, and the volunteer director for a support group series called “Boost Your Brain’s Balance.”
HOSTS
Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA)
Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media
This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media.
Summary
The podcast explores the challenging world of visual vertigo, a complex condition that disrupts how individuals perceive their environment and maintain balance. Hosted by Cynthia Ryan and Kimberly Warner, the episode features two guests: Elizabeth, a 21-year veteran of living with a vestibular disorder, and Dr. Morgan Kriz, a physical therapist specializing in vestibular rehabilitation.
Elizabeth shares her personal journey, which began unexpectedly during a family vacation when she suddenly became dizzy. Her symptoms were severe and life-altering: words would jump on pages, environments would appear to move, and even simple tasks like grocery shopping became overwhelming challenges. As a registered nurse, she was forced to retire early, losing a significant part of her professional identity. Her symptoms include constant visual disturbances where environments seem to shift, shake, or move unpredictably. Triggers such as crowded spaces, fluorescent lighting, patterned clothing, and fast-moving vehicles can exacerbate her condition. Elizabeth developed coping mechanisms over the years, including prism glasses, vestibular therapy, meditation, and grounding techniques.
Dr. Morgan Kriz provides professional insights into visual vertigo, explaining it as a complex interaction between the visual, vestibular, and somatosensory systems. Her approach to treatment emphasizes individualized care, recognizing that each patient’s experience is unique. Kris describes her evaluation process as comprehensive, utilizing specialized testing, such as infrared goggles, to assess eye movements and balance. She introduces the concepts of “mini threats” and “dosing,” gradually exposing patients to challenging environments in a controlled and safe manner to help their nervous system adapt. The podcast highlights several key strategies for managing visual vertigo:
- Nervous system regulation
- Gradual exposure to triggering environments
- Lifestyle modifications
- Mental health support
- Consistent sleep patterns
- Grounding techniques
An exciting development discussed is the potential of gaming and virtual reality in vestibular rehabilitation. Kris is consulting with a gaming company to develop interactive, engaging rehabilitation programs that could make therapy more accessible and enjoyable.
Elizabeth’s story illustrates remarkable resilience. Despite losing her nursing career, she became a VeDA ambassador, helping others navigate their own vestibular challenges. She emphasizes the importance of adaptation, maintaining a positive attitude, and continuously working to manage her condition.
Both guests offer hope to those struggling with visual vertigo. Kriz encourages patients to build a supportive medical team and understand that while their symptoms are challenging, they can still accomplish difficult tasks. Elizabeth demonstrates that with proper management and support, individuals can lead fulfilling lives despite chronic vestibular disorders.
The podcast serves as a compassionate, informative resource for anyone experiencing visual vertigo, offering both personal insights and professional guidance. It highlights the complexity of vestibular disorders while providing practical strategies for coping and potential avenues for improvement.
