twohands

I also suffer from vertigo/dizziness and have Meniere's Disease.

Basically, for several days prior to the start of your menstruation your body retains fluid. Then a couple days after your period starts this fluid is released, and I often find I have to pee constantly toward the end of my periods.

During the time your body is retaining the fluid, the fluid-filled areas in your inner ear near your balance semi-circular canals get swollen, and this is what is causing your dizziness. Inner ear infections can also cause it, but since you're experiencing this monthly with your cycle instead of an acute attack, you probably don't have an infection.

The best thing to do starting around a week before your period and even through the first few days of your period is to severely restrict your salt intake as salt causes us to retain fluid. Try this during your next cycle and you'll be amazed at what a difference it makes.

Another thing which seems contradictory is to drink lots of water during this timeframe as it will help to carry salt out of your body which will help alleviate the fluid retention.

Something you can try while you're having vertigo is chewing gum, and try using decongestants like Sudafed (behind the pharmacy counter).

I was diagnosed with Allergy-induced Meniere's Disease, and I've found that if I control my allergies, I'm able to control my Meniere's Disease/vertigo. You may have an allergy to dust mites or something like that which is causing at least part of your problem. I take Allegra and Flonase for mine. Meniere's Disease basically consists of severe vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). If you have these other symptoms be sure to see a doctor for help.

You might want to visit an ear, nose and throat specialist if you can't get this under control in the next month or so.

You likely won't be able to eliminate the problem, but the above may really help you minimize it. Also, I completely sympathize with your panic feelings when driving with these symptoms!

HTH!