Hi folks,

I have been finally diagnosed Vestibular Neuritis by an Otoneurologist (truly speaking, he is a ENT specialized in the inner ear). He told me to do some VRT on my own and to wait until the symptoms disappear. He told me also to be ready for potentially 18 months with symptoms.

Now, for the first time since this started, I have felt almost perfect for some 6 hours some days ago. But I am back again with symptoms and, moreover, I am starting to have headaches as well, something that I never had.

I have been reading some stuff about homeopathy in this forum and it seems that the few experiences were satisfactory in the short run, but not really effective at a long term level.

Would anyone suggest to go to an homeopath?

Another question, for the experts on the forum: do these headaches suggest MAV? My headaches are mild but persistent and only happen while standing or sitting up straight, which are the positions that make me feel unstable.

Thanks a lot,
Sergio

Hi, Sergio--

I'm a fan of natural approaches in general, but I like to stick with those that have shown efficacy in clinical trials. You can search on the Web to see if treatments you're curious about have been tested at all or if they are safe. I've been wavering between a VN and MAV diagnosis myself...right now I'm taking some supplements, including magnesium, coQ10, omega 3s, B-complex vitamins, gingko biloba, and 5htp. I'm still dizzy--though less so--but my mood is better after taking these things. Also, sleep has improved after 5htp. Feverfew and butterbur also have proven effectiveness against migraines, if that ends up being the problem.

I have had increased headaches along with the dizzy problem as well, but they don't seem to be related to my position. I'm not sure what that would indicate in your case...maybe something a chiro could address?

--Violet

I saw a homeopath when I wasn't being helped by anything else. It definitely helped me out of a bad period, but it didn't lead to full recovery.

Why did the doc not recommend being followed by a PT for VRT? Headaches are really common when you are challenging your system. It could be just that rather than MAV.

I too believe that homeopathic methods can work, including acupuncture, massage and supplements. But please steer away from anything resembling "craniosacral" therapy. It is a total sham and does nothing but enrich its quack practicioners. Look it up for more details. Be skeptical in general of any treatment that sounds weird...it may indeed work but be sure to do your homework before allowing anyone to treat you. Good luck!

Dan

I too believe that homeopathic methods can work, including acupuncture, massage and supplements. But please steer away from anything resembling "craniosacral" therapy. It is a total sham and does nothing but enrich its quack practicioners. Look it up for more details. Be skeptical in general of any treatment that sounds weird...it may indeed work but be sure to do your homework before allowing anyone to treat you. Good luck!

Dan

I have to respectfully disagree about craniosacral therapy. I used to work with a physical therapist that only did craniosacral therapy and I've seen it do amazing things. Like all therapies, they are not for every problem and every person, and like many areas they may claim that can "fix it all". It didn't help my dizziness, but I've seen it cure torticollis, change children with autism, and eliminate severe constipation in addition to many other things.