I take meclizine twice a day. I do go to physical therapy but the exercises make me feel so bad.
April 25
I have had vertigo every few years for 20 years. I sleep reclined on a couple of pillows. Physical therapy has helped at times.
April 25
Dealing with more frequent vertigo after 12 years with RRMS can be really frustrating — and you're definitely not alone in this. Vertigo in MS is often linked to lesions in the brainstem or cerebellum, areas that control balance and coordination. It can also be triggered by a relapse or even be a side effect of certain Show Full Answer
Dealing with more frequent vertigo after 12 years with RRMS can be really frustrating — and you're definitely not alone in this. Vertigo in MS is often linked to lesions in the brainstem or cerebellum, areas that control balance and coordination. It can also be triggered by a relapse or even be a side effect of certain medications.
Here are some things that may help prevent or reduce vertigo episodes:
- Talk to your neurologist about whether your current medications could be contributing, including your DMT or any muscle relaxants
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy — a specialized physical therapy that retrains your balance system and can significantly reduce dizziness
- Fall-proof your home by installing grab bars and removing tripping hazards
- Move slowly when changing positions, like standing up from sitting When a vertigo episode strikes, these immediate steps can help keep you safe:
- Sit down right away and anchor your head against a wall or chair
- Stay still — avoid moving your head or changing positions
- Dim the lights and avoid screens until it passes
- Wait it out before slowly getting up again
Over-the-counter motion sickness medications can also help with occasional episodes, but always check with your doctor first. If vertigo comes on suddenly or severely, or is accompanied by chest pain, double vision, or numbness, seek emergency care right away.
April 25