While I frequently share my travel stories, I have always wanted to highlight upon the behavioral patterns of travelers and many other aspects of travel. This time, I have come up with something real and helpful- How to travel to the fullest without worrying about Vertigo? It might be new to some and some may relate to it completely, but at the end of the day, it will help everyone to hold on to our travel goals and not give in to the illusions which do not exist. (physical, mental or be it an ailment)
Have you met somebody who has told you that they fear long travels on flights because they fear their environment spinning around them or you have had a co-passenger complain of nausea, dizziness, vomiting along with some disorientation problem? I have had one such experience which made me aware of it.
I had no clue that something like this existed until I met a lady at the OSLO airport (5 years ago) and we happened to make a conversation. She was traveling to Finland and I was returning to India. She had a confident demeanor. She was hardly in her 30’s. She talked about her travels but suddenly she uttered something very contrasting to the first impression that I made of her. She said ‘I am nervous about this flight because I have been diagnosed with a problem with the balance. Everything around me seems to be rocking. The doctors call it vertigo.’
I wasn’t prepared to handle this and I think I just blabbered with a foolish face, ‘Its just a flight, the weather seems good, why will things rock at all?’ Later, when I read about it, I realized that she was fearing a ‘Vertigo attack’ and was looking for a reaffirmation to boost her confidence which I failed to extend. Frequent attacks or the uncertainty of when it may attack does make you worried. But as the general verdict goes that the road, rail, air or sea travel become difficult is not always true. There are ways to make it better and easier.
WHAT IS VERTIGO!
The illusionary sensation of movement and dizziness may sometimes get worse. You might feel or imagine some displacements which may not exist for real. There may be spinning, turning or rolling of objects in your surroundings. The motion sickness may increase to a new level and you may feel a loss of balance and equilibrium. This is Vertigo.
In fact, a lot of travelers don’t know about vertigo till they experience it themselves. The most common symptom is dizziness but it isn’t just about it rather its different from just spinning of the head. different from dizziness. Vertigo is an alteration of the vestibular system which occurs in the inner ear. It is neurological center is found in the trunk of the brain. The dizziness may or may not be related to alteration. The treatment is very much possible, just that it requires integral and multi-modal approach. One needs to take medications, physical therapy as well as be prepared to make some lifestyle adaptations.
DO THIS
• During an attack of Vertigo, take hold of the nearest available support.
• Sit down as soon as you start feeling dizzy.
• Be in a position which is most stable and comfortable and keep your body as still as possible.
• Get rid of things like rugs or electrical wires which may cause you to trip when you feel dizzy. It is also a good idea to use non-slip mats in the bathroom.
• Don’t drive when you experience dizziness.
• Keep a night light on in case you need to get out of bed at night.
• Use a cane if you feel unsteady while walking.
• If moving is required, it should be done very slowly and carefully.
• Close your eyes or keep them fixed on objects in front of you.
• Eventually, once there is an improvement you may start moving gradually.
AVOID THIS
• Do not panic and do not be anxious.
• Do not move very quickly or rapidly.
• Do not turn your head suddenly.
• Avoid reading or working on a computer while traveling in a car, bus or train
• Avoid loud background music
• No matter where you go avoid rush hour
WHAT IS A VERTIGO CLINIC?
It is a one point center where one can get complete information about the symptoms, its diagnosis, rehabilitation and more. One must meet their doctor and get it treated but in this ailment, lifestyle changes are also very helpful. With proper attention, conditions can be managed for the good. Medicines definitely help to relieve of the nervousness but it has been seen that Yoga practices also help to get rid or reduce vertigo symptoms.
YOGIC KRIYAS HAVE A POSITIVE ROLE TO PLAY
The health of the ear is the most important in maintaining the balance of body and therefore one must do these kriyas for the good of the ear drums. Some of these most useful kriyas like Karna Randhra Dhaouti, Karnapatala Runadab, Karnapatala Dhanadab, KapalaBharti, Brahma Mudra, Pranayama are best suggested for maintaining vertigo.
VERTIGO EXERCISE APP ENSURES TO PROVIDE SUPPORT EVERYWHERE
If you have symptoms of vertigo and if you trust the idea of downloading apps on your smartphones, this is just for you. In my opinion, apps help us in many ways and many a times they are the only savior. VertiGo Exercise App is a great way to rehabilitation and home exercises. They provide with a virtual trainer who ensures that you carry out the exercises accurately. Do not hesitate from making your mobile your healthcare support.
HAPPY TRAVELING!
It is an eye opening article. I didn’t know vertigo could be so serious. I have faced only milder form of it and only for few seconds while on high altitude Treks. But this looks like serious. Hope the tips you shared help those who suffer from it.
Thanks for sharing… some of my near and dear ones are suffering from vertigo. i will surely tell them your suggestions.
Whoa! Never realized Vertigo could be this serious. Thank you for sharing the information. This will help many for sure.
Very useful information, Manjulika