Using Essential Oils Behind the Ear as a Natural Vertigo Remedy

Understanding Vertigo and Its Causes

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning dizziness that can be debilitating for those who experience it. It's often described as feeling like the room is spinning around you, even when you yourself are not moving. Vertigo can come on suddenly and make it difficult to maintain balance and coordination.

There are two main causes of vertigo:

Peripheral Vertigo

This type of vertigo stems from a problem in the inner ear. It's often caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when calcium particles (canaliths) clump up in the inner ear canals. As these particles move within the ear, they can trigger false sensations of motion and dizziness.

Peripheral vertigo may also be caused by:

• Inner ear infections
• Inflammation of the inner ear
• Meniere's disease
• Head trauma that damages the inner ear

Peripheral vertigo is usually triggered by changes in head position, like looking up, bending down, or rolling over in bed.

Central Vertigo

This type of vertigo is caused by a problem in the brain or brain stem. Issues with blood flow, tumors, migraines, or head trauma can all contribute to central vertigo.

Unlike peripheral vertigo, central vertigo is not typically associated with changes in head position. It may occur along with other neurological symptoms like weakness, slurred speech, loss of coordination, or double vision.

Common Vertigo Symptoms

The main symptom of vertigo is a spinning sensation or feeling that you, your surroundings, or both are moving when there is no actual motion. Vertigo can make you feel like you are:

• Spinning
• Tilting
• Swaying
• Whirling
• Being pulled to one direction

These illusions of motion are sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sweating, or difficulties walking and maintaining balance. The vertigo spells may be brief, lasting only seconds, or can persist for hours or longer.

Other Possible Vertigo Symptoms

• Lightheadedness
• Feeling faint
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Hearing loss
• Feeling off-balance
• Double vision
• Slurred speech
• Confusion
• Loss of coordination

When to See a Doctor

You should make an appointment with your doctor if you experience any recurrent or severe symptoms of vertigo. Seek emergency medical treatment right away if vertigo comes on suddenly along with:

• Trouble speaking
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vision changes
• Weakness or inability to move an arm or leg
• Loss of consciousness

These signs may indicate a serious health issue like stroke or brain damage.

Diagnosing Vertigo

To diagnose vertigo, your doctor will start by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. Be prepared to describe your dizziness episodes in detail.

Your doctor will likely perform some basic medical tests to check your:

• Blood pressure
• Heart rate
• Balance
• Coordination
• Vision
• Hearing
• Neurological reflexes

You may also need specialized tests to help pinpoint the cause of vertigo, such as:

• Videonystagmography (VNG) - This tracks your eye movements to detect signs of inner ear problems.
• Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) - Small electrodes measure responses in your neck muscles when your ears are stimulated with sound or vibration.
• Posturography - You stand on a special movable platform that detects balance issues.
• Electronystagmography (ENG) - Cold and warm water is placed in your ears to stimulate the vestibular system while eye movements are recorded.
• MRI or CT scan - Provides images of the brain and nerves to check for any abnormalities.

Treating Vertigo

Treatment will depend on the specific cause and severity of your vertigo. Here are some common treatment options:

Medications

Medications that may be prescribed for vertigo include:

• Anticholinergics - Block muscarinic receptors to reduce inner ear fluid secretions.
• Antihistamines - Reduce inner ear inflammation.
• Benzodiazepines - Alleviate vertigo associated with anxiety.
• Corticosteroids - Lessen inflammation.
• Antiemetics - Prevent nausea and vomiting.

Balance Therapy

Vestibular rehabilitation exercises can help strengthen muscles and nerves involved in balance. This may include training with a physical therapist to do targeted head and eye movements.

Repositioning Procedures

For benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), repositioning maneuvers may be performed. These involve moving the head to reposition calcium particles within the inner ear.

Surgery

If vertigo is caused by Meniere’s disease, an inner ear infection, or other fixable structural problems, surgery may be an option.

Lifestyle Changes for Vertigo

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can also help minimize the occurrence of vertigo episodes:

• Get enough sleep and rest.
• Avoid activities that overstimulate the inner ear, like thrill rides at amusement parks.
• Wear flat shoes to help maintain balance.
• Use a walking aid if needed for stability.
• Sleep with the head slightly elevated on pillows.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dizziness.
• Quit smoking, as nicotine constricts blood vessels.

Using Essential Oils for Vertigo

Some people find that aromatherapy using certain essential oils provides relief from vertigo symptoms. Specific essential oils that may help with vertigo include:

Peppermint Oil

The menthol in peppermint oil has a cooling, anti-inflammatory effect. It also helps open up congested airways. Dilute a few drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil and massage it behind the ears and over the neck.

Ginger Oil

Ginger oil can curb feelings of nausea. Add 2-3 drops to water or tea and drink. You can also dilute ginger oil and rub it gently behind the ears.

Lavender Oil

Lavender promotes relaxation and sleep. The aroma may help ease anxiety and stress that exacerbate vertigo. Put a few drops on a tissue near your pillow at bedtime.

Basil Oil

Basil oil assists with circulation and has antispasmodic properties to relieve muscle spasms. Massage diluted basil oil over the back of the neck and shoulders.

Using Vertigo Oil Behind the Ear

Applying diluted essential oils behind the ear may stimulate nerves in the area and help relieve vertigo. The skin behind the ears is very thin, so essential oils are easily absorbed.

To use essential oils behind the ear:

1. Choose your oils - Try peppermint, ginger, lavender, or basil oil.
2. Dilute properly - Only use 1-2 drops of essential oil for every teaspoon of carrier oil like coconut oil.
3. Apply with care - Dab the oil gently behind the ears using clean fingers or a cotton ball.
4. Use sparingly - Start with 1-2 applications daily and see how your body responds.

Never put the undiluted essential oils directly into or inside the ear canal. Place only behind the outer ear. If skin becomes irritated, discontinue use.

Using essential oils behind the ears may help some vertigo sufferers find relief from symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and headaches. However, oils should not replace medical treatment if vertigo is severe or recurring.

Be sure to consult your doctor if vertigo symptoms persist or worsen. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most people with vertigo can successfully manage their condition and prevent severe episodes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.