Dizziness & Diabetes:Treatment options for dizziness

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Dizziness & Diabetes:Treatment options for dizziness
Gary Pepper, M.D., FACP
YourTotalHealth

Treatment options for dizziness

Treatment of dizziness is directed at its cause. For instance, people with diabetes who have hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) may alleviate dizziness by drinking fruit juice or consuming a sugary snack, as advised by their physician. Those with anemia may require a blood transfusion to increase their red blood cells. Patients with anxiety may benefit from medication and counseling.

Patients with certain forms of vertigo, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), may be instructed in body positioning techniques and exercises they can perform at home to control dizziness. These techniques include the modified Epley procedure (MEP) and modified Semont maneuver (MSM). They involve briefly placing the head and body in certain specific positions to reduce or halt symptoms. These maneuvers work by helping remove debris from the ear’s sensitive posterior canal.

Individuals with severe cases of dizziness, such as those caused by Meniere’s disease, may require surgery to alleviate symptoms.

Almost everyone who experiences dizziness will eventually recover. However, individuals with rare cases of chronic dizziness may benefit from medical intervention.

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