Vertigo...It's Not Just a Film By Hitchcock

For the second time in my life I am experiencing severe vertigo.  By this I mean that I am dizzy like I've been buzzed, riding a rollercoaster and teacups for a month and spinning in circles as if I would turn into Wonder Woman.  All this while being perfectly still.

The first time was almost 20 years ago.  I was in college and working full time.  Being young and stupid I kept going until my driving began to scare me.  I pulled over and called someone to pick me up.  The next day I was at the doctor's office, ear tests were done and I was treated for sinus problems (which stopped the vertigo).  I was not able to drive for another week.

This particular round of vertigo is also caused by inner ear problems related to sinusitis.  The sinuses become blocked and then the blockage spreads to the inner ears. I have about 20 minutes from the time I start moving until I have to lie down because the vertigo becomes too bad.  Then I'm in bed for a couple of hours while the world stops spinning.

Sitting isn't as bad as standing.  When the world begins to move too fast I just rest my head on the nearest desk or wall until the episode eases.  One thing I was not expecting this time was the pain.  It makes my ears hurt.

The treatment this time is an antihistamine that is also used for motion sickness.  Ironically enough one of the side effects is dizziness.  Another side effect is drowsiness.  So basically I look like a sleepy drunk when moving around.  It's been 24 hours and I am noticing a difference.  Hopefully the next couple of days will see continued improvement.