Vertigo Due to Chemical Imbalance in Body

Vertigo causes sensory disturbance, affecting balance.

A chemical imbalance in the body manifests with signs and symptoms ranging from minor to annoying, including vertigo. According to the Vestibular Disorders Association, vertigo is associated with many ailments, generating a combined U.S. medical care cost of more than $1 billion annually.

Causes

A diet lacking appropriate vitamins and nutrients can cause a chemical imbalance, as can emotional and physical stress.

Vertigo

Vertigo--a sensory problem often caused by a physical aliment such as an inner ear infection or Meniere's disease--can cause vomiting, dizziness and the inability to stand without stumbling or falling down.

Diagnosing

Doctors may confront a paradox when diagnosing vertigo: A magnesium deficiency and vertigo may be causing a patient to have depression or the depression may be causing the vertigo.

Evaluation

A physical exam and blood testing determine the root cause of vertigo associated with chemical imbalance. According to author and osteopathic physician Mary Ann Block, the body has 350 biochemical functions that depend on the correct level of magnesium.

Treatment

The primary treatment for a chemical imbalance is dietary adjustments, with rest, hydration, and limiting caffeine, tobacco and alcohol as interim steps. A doctor may also prescribe or suggest over-the-counter medications for dizziness and nausea.

References

• Vestibular Disorders Association: Statistics
• University of California at San Diego Medical Center: Dizziness & Vertigo Treatment
• The Block Center: Depression