So, you’re dizzy and you don’t know what to do. The first step is to find a healthcare specialist so you can learn what is causing your dizziness. Your physician may refer you for diagnostic testing, and depending on your diagnosis you may be prescribed medications and/or vestibular rehabilitation therapy. Once you are medically managed, and hopefully feeling at least somewhat better, you might start looking for ways to help you manage your ongoing or periodic symptoms.
Everyone wants a “magic pill” that will make them feel “normal” again. Sadly, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for chronic vestibular symptoms. In desperation, many people explore promised cures and panaceas. Some of them make you feel better for a while, and others, well, they don’t.
Why? One reason is that everyone is different. Another is that there is little research on these complementary and alternative therapies to support their efficacy.
This article is NOT meant to tell you what works and what doesn’t. It is a community-sourced (not research-based) list of products based on input from VeDA volunteers. This is not an exhaustive list. We make no guarantees, and we absolutely do not endorse any particular product. This is a starting place for you to explore some things that may (or may not) support your wellness as you struggle with vestibular symptoms.
We recommend that you ask around, check with people on vestibular-related social media groups, and definitely consult with your healthcare provider before deciding if any of these products are right for you.
Let’s get started!
Nausea
- Sea sickness wrist bands – Example: Blisslets.
- Mint tea
- Ginger chews
Light sensitivity
- Light sensitivity glasses – Check out VeDA’s article on light sensitivity, and try Avulux or Theraspecs brands.
Relaxation/Stress Management
- Kava tea
- Yoga nidra – Learn more about yoga nidra for relaxation from the Cleveland Clinic.
- Apps for relaxation, e.g. Calm, Headspace, and Insight Timer.
- Biofeedback – Check out this article on stress management products by vestibular patient, Glenn Schweitzer.
- CBD – Some people use CBD (without THC, the psychoactive ingredient in the cannabis plant) for stress management.
Sensory feedback
Gives you feedback to make you more aware of where your body is in space. Can be helpful for people who experience dissociation.
- Chewing gum
- Weighted blanket
- Tight leggings
- Fidget device
- Weighted vest
Other
- Airplane ear plugs – Here’s a review on Eargasm Aviation ear plugs.
- Supplements: Magnesium, riboflavin/B2, and vitamin D are just a few supplements recommended for the support of vestibular health. (Reminder: Check with your healthcare provider about possible interactions with medications.)
- Vagus nerve stimulator – Cephaly is an FDA approved drug-free treatment for migraine. It uses electrical impulses to stimulate and desensitize the trigeminal nerve over time.
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