In this powerful episode, host Bridgett Wallace presents an interview with Sarah, who shares her personal journey living with vestibular migraines and Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness (3PD). Following the theme of hope explored in Episode 1, Sarah's story illustrates the real-world impact of finding hope while managing chronic vestibular conditions. She describes her initial terrifying symptoms, challenges navigating the healthcare system, and how finding proper diagnosis and treatment transformed her life. Despite ongoing symptoms, Sarah shares how knowledge, proper treatment, and realistic hope have helped her reclaim a meaningful life and develop effective coping strategies.

• 00:00:33 - Connection to Episode 1's theme on hope
• 00:00:50 - Introduction to Sarah's story with vestibular migraines and 3PD
• 00:01:24 - Sarah describes her first vertigo episode and ongoing symptoms
• 00:02:40 - Impact on daily life and social activities
• 00:04:45 - Sarah's challenging experience navigating the healthcare system
• 00:05:31 - Isolation and dismissal of invisible symptoms
• 00:06:47 - Finding validation and proper diagnosis with Bridgett
• 00:07:37 - Overview of Sarah's treatment journey
• 00:08:20 - Importance of symptom tracking and identifying triggers
• 00:09:01 - How knowledge empowered Sarah to manage her condition
• 00:09:58 - Sarah's current life with vestibular conditions
• 00:10:55 - How hope has been transformative in Sarah's journey
• 00:12:31 - Sarah's closing advice for listeners with vestibular conditions
• 00:13:59 - Bridgett's reflections connecting Sarah's story to previous episodes

• Sarah experienced her first severe vertigo attack while driving, leading to an ER visit where she was told it was "just an inner ear thing"
• After the initial spinning episodes, Sarah developed constant unsteadiness that severely impacted her daily life
• She saw seven different doctors who offered conflicting diagnoses before finding proper care
• The turning point came when Sarah received a proper diagnosis of vestibular migraines with 3PD after 18 months of searching
• Sarah's comprehensive treatment included the SEEDS approach (Sleep, Exercise, Eat/Drink, and Stress management)
• Vestibular rehabilitation exercises, lifestyle modifications, and medication helped manage her symptoms
• Finding patterns through symptom tracking helped Sarah identify that inadequate sleep and dehydration were major triggers
• Three years later, Sarah still has symptoms but has developed effective coping strategies and adaptations
• Tools that help Sarah include rose-colored glasses for visual challenges and noise-canceling headphones for auditory overload
• Sarah emphasizes that hope has been her "most valuable medicine" - not hope for a cure, but hope in her capacity to adapt

• SEEDS framework for vestibular management: Sleep, Exercise, Eat/Drink, and Stress management
• Vestibular rehabilitation exercises
• Rose-colored glasses for visually challenging environments
• Noise-canceling headphones for auditory overload
• Symptom journaling to identify patterns and triggers
• References to Episode 1 (importance of hope) and Episode 2 (dizziness as a "silent syndrome")

Visit 360livingbalanced.com to learn more about the VITALITY framework and connect with our supportive community. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and share with someone who might benefit, whether a healthcare practitioner or someone seeking answers about vestibular health.

Remember, true progress happens when expertise and lived experience come together.

In this comprehensive episode, Bridget Wallace demystifies Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), the most common type of vertigo treated in clinical settings. With her extensive experience treating vestibular disorders, Bridget explains how dislodged ear crystals can cause brief but intense spinning sensations with certain head movements. She breaks down the complex anatomy of the inner ear, identifies the various types and locations of BPPV, and details effective treatment approaches for each variation. This episode offers valuable insights for both those experiencing BPPV and healthcare professionals looking to enhance their understanding of this prevalent vestibular condition.

• 00:01:11 - Introduction to Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
• 00:02:19 - Detailed explanation of BPPV and its impact on daily life
• 00:03:02 - Risk factors and prevalence of BPPV
• 00:04:06 - Key indicators to recognize BPPV
• 00:04:58 - How healthcare providers diagnose BPPV
• 00:06:22 - Detailed anatomy of the inner ear and semicircular canals
• 00:07:57 - Types of BPPV and terminology explained
• 00:10:30 - Introduction to Type 2 BPPV (without nystagmus)
• 00:11:03 - Treatment options for different types of BPPV
• 00:12:58 - Post-treatment precautions and effectiveness

• BPPV is the most common inner ear disorder, with prevalence increasing with age and over 50% recurrence rate within three years
• The two most reliable indicators of BPPV are short duration vertigo (less than 60 seconds) and specific head movement triggers
• Risk factors include low vitamin D levels, age, osteoporosis, low estrogen, diabetes, head trauma, migraines, and inner ear fluid problems
• There are more than 20 specific maneuvers designed to reposition dislodged ear crystals depending on their location
• Posterior canal BPPV is most common (80%), followed by horizontal canal (10-15%), and anterior canal (2%)

• Visual handout for understanding inner ear anatomy and BPPV terminology
• Epley maneuver for posterior canal BPPV
• Semont maneuver as an alternative treatment
• Barbecue roll for horizontal canal BPPV
• Yacovino maneuver for anterior canal BPPV
• Episode 3 reference for describing dizziness to healthcare providers

Visit 360livingbalance.com to join our community, access resources including the visual handout referenced in this episode, and learn more about vestibular health. If you found this information helpful, please subscribe to the podcast and share with others who might benefit from understanding BPPV.

In this enlightening second episode, Bridget Wallace delves into the often misunderstood world of chronic dizziness - an invisible condition that profoundly impacts lives despite showing few outward signs. Drawing from her 25+ years of experience working with dizzy patients, Bridget addresses the challenges of living with an illness others can't see, from diagnosis difficulties to the emotional toll of constantly having to validate your symptoms. She introduces helpful concepts like the "spoon theory" to explain energy limitations, while offering practical advice for both those experiencing dizziness and those supporting loved ones with invisible conditions.

• 00:01:14 - Introduction to chronic dizziness as an invisible illness
• 00:02:16 - The many forms dizziness can take and its lack of visibility
• 00:03:33 - The struggle of normal test results despite abnormal feelings
• 00:04:42 - How difficult it is for others to understand the full impact of dizziness
• 00:05:15 - Managing the emotional toll and giving yourself grace
• 00:06:01 - Advice for loved ones trying to understand and support
• 00:07:11 - Introduction to the "spoon theory" for explaining energy limitations
• 00:09:10 - Coping strategies including mindfulness and pacing activities
• 00:09:35 - The importance of community and understanding

• The invisible nature of dizziness creates unique challenges in both medical settings and everyday life
• Many patients see seven or more healthcare providers before receiving appropriate diagnosis and treatment
• The worst thing you can do to someone with an invisible illness is make them feel they need to prove how sick they are
• "Spoon theory" provides a helpful metaphor for the limited energy available to those with chronic conditions
• Open communication about needs and limitations is crucial for both those with dizziness and their support network

• Two-page worksheet for communicating about dizziness with others
• 360 Living Balanced premium membership ($9/month or $90/year)
• Community features including healthcare provider connections, live events, and searchable content
• Mobile app for staying connected on the go
• On-demand educational courses

Visit 360livingbalance.com to join our community, access resources, and learn more about our vitality framework. Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen and share with others who might benefit. Remember, true progress happens when expertise and lived experience come together.

In this debut episode, Bridget Wallace explores the crucial role of hope in managing vestibular disorders and chronic dizziness. Drawing from over 25 years of experience and 50,000+ patient interactions at her Austin-based clinic, Bridget discusses how hope serves as a powerful tool that can improve coping mechanisms, enhance well-being, and build resilience against depression.

• 00:03:04 - Reflection on what patients truly seek: diagnosis and solutions
• 00:05:03 - The vital importance of hope in chronic conditions
• 00:07:13 - Different types of hope and their unique purposes
• 00:08:33 - Practical strategies for cultivating hope
• 00:10:25 - Hope exercises for listeners
• 00:13:21 - Information about the 360 Living Balanced community and resources

• Hope serves as a catalyst for positive change, empowering patients to envision a better state of being
• The three forms of hope: Illness-Specific Hope, Transcendent Hope, and Utopian Hope
• Six actionable steps to harness the power of hope, including taking small steps and focusing on what you can control
• Extended reflection exercises for listeners to develop their own relationship with hope

• 360 Living Balance community membership (free and paid options)
• 360 Balance Yourself training program with progressive difficulty levels
• Downloadable hope exercises workbook
• OTAGA Fall Prevention Program (modified for home use)

Visit 360livingbalance.com to join our community, access resources, and learn more about our vitality framework. Check us out on Instagram @360livingbalanced

In this episode of "I'm Just Dizzy," we delve into a topic that has garnered significant attention over recent years: the prevalence of vestibular and cochlear symptoms associated with COVID-19 infections and vaccinations. Join us as we unravel the complexities behind symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing loss, which have become notably common among COVID-19 survivors and those who have been vaccinated.

We start by exploring the statistics that shed light on the frequency of these symptoms. Post-COVID-19 infection, a significant number of people have exhibited spontaneous and positional nystagmus, difficulty with eye movements, and vertigo, indicating potential inner ear damage and vestibular dysfunction. We also discuss the incidence of these symptoms following vaccination, reassuring listeners that while the numbers are lower, the experiences of those affected are no less significant.

Our journey continues as we examine the potential causes of these symptoms. From direct viral infections of the inner ear to vascular complications and the impact of Long COVID, we cover the various factors contributing to these distressing conditions. We delve into the intricacies of inner ear infections, such as vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis, and their potential to lead to chronic conditions like Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness (3PD).

Moreover, we address the challenges in diagnosing central vestibular disorders and the importance of an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Highlighting the benefits of vestibular rehabilitation and complementary therapies, we emphasize the need for individualized treatment plans to aid recovery.

Finally, we stress the importance of ongoing research in understanding these symptoms and developing better treatment protocols. As we wrap up, we encourage our listeners to stay informed and proactive about their health, reminding them that they are not alone in this journey. Tune in for expert insights, valuable information, and a supportive community dedicated to your health and well-being.

Let me know in the Comments section if you have specific topics you want me to cover.

Don't forget about the download, which you can access from our podcast show on our website.

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Welcome to today's episode of "Raising Your Threshold in Vestibular Migraine." In this segment, we delve into the intricate world of vestibular migraine—a condition that continues to puzzle both patients and clinicians. Unlike traditional migraines, vestibular migraines may not always present with a headache. Instead, they often manifest through symptoms such as light and sound sensitivity, nausea, vomiting, and visual aura, making diagnosis a unique challenge.

Patients with vestibular migraine frequently struggle with poor tolerance to position changes (like bending over, looking up, or rolling in bed), self-motion (such as turning the head), and visual motion (for example, cars passing at an intersection). Busy environments, like grocery stores, can also pose difficulties and sensations of unsteadiness. Additionally, it's common for individuals to report ear-related symptoms such as pressure, fullness, ringing, or even hearing loss.

This episode provides a comprehensive historical perspective on vestibular migraine, shedding light on its diagnostic criteria and challenges within the healthcare system. We also explore non-pharmaceutical treatment options, emphasizing lifestyle behaviors that can help manage and potentially prevent vestibular migraines. By understanding these approaches, listeners can gain valuable insights into elevating their threshold for this complex condition.

Join us as we navigate the nuances of vestibular migraine, offering expert advice and practical strategies to empower you on your journey to better health. Whether you're a patient seeking relief or a clinician aiming to enhance your understanding, this episode promises to be a valuable resource. Tune in and take the first step towards raising your threshold for vestibular migraines.

Let me know in the Comments section if you have specific topics you want me to cover.

Don't forget about the download, which you can access from our podcast show on our website.

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CLICK HERE to visit our website to answer additional questions.

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In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of Vestibular Ocular Reflex (VOR) training, a vital component in managing dizziness and balance disorders. Discover how specific gaze stabilization exercises can improve your VOR to reduce movement-related dizziness and unsteadiness, blurriness with head motion, and even nausea.

We closely examine the anatomy of the ear--from outer ear to inner ear--and the physiology of the VOR pathways between the inner ear and brain. We also discuss personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, combining advanced vestibular testing with specialized physical therapy.

We cover essential exercises like VOR Viewing X1 and VOR Viewing X2 viewing, designed to improve your ability to maintain visual focus during head movements and decrease, if not alleviate, your movement-related symptoms. Learn the step-by-step techniques to practice these exercises at home, ensuring you get the most out of your vestibular rehabilitation therapy.

Join us as we explore the science behind VOR, offer practical tips, and support those struggling with dizziness. This episode will provide insights for patients and healthcare providers.

Don't forget about the download, which you can access from our podcast show on our website.

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This episode emphasizes the critical importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. Early identification can significantly enhance recovery outcomes, but knowing that effective treatment is possible even months or years after the initial injury is reassuring.

We examine the phenomenon of recurring symptoms, explaining how stressors like physical exertion or lack of sleep can cause them to resurface. This doesn’t mean the concussion itself has returned but rather that the associated symptoms are re-emerging. Our discussion includes the evolving understanding of concussion management over the past decades, highlighting how outdated practices have given way to more effective, evidence-based approaches.

Listeners will learn about the current best practices for treating persistent symptoms, including the benefits of gradual reactivation and symptom provocation strategies. We also touch on the interconnectedness of various injuries—such as those to the neck, inner ear, and eyes—and their role in concussion-like symptoms.

As we wrap up, we acknowledge the complexity of managing concussions and invite our audience to request future episodes dedicated to this multifaceted topic. Join us for a professional and empathetic exploration aimed at providing clarity and support on your health journey.

Would you like more episodes focused on specific aspects of concussion care? Let us know in the comments section.

And, don't forget about the Concussion Profile download.

Welcome to Episode 8 of "I'm Just Dizzy," where we delve into some of our patients' most pressing questions about dizziness and vertigo. This episode addresses various topics to provide clarity, reassurance, and practical advice on managing these challenging symptoms.

We begin by tackling whether dizziness is an age-related issue and explore the distinctions between hereditary and genetic factors influencing dizziness. We then discuss the concept of "no pain, no gain" in vestibular rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing symptoms without overexertion.

Next, we group several related questions to provide comprehensive insights into how stress, vision, neck issues, and medications can contribute to dizziness and unsteadiness. Each factor plays a crucial role in your overall sense of balance and well-being, and we offer actionable tips on addressing them.

We also demystify vertigo by defining it clearly and discussing its common causes and symptoms. For those who have experienced severe vertigo episodes, we address concerns about recurrence and delve into conditions like BPPV and Meniere’s Disease.

Finally, we answer whether you'll need to continue specific exercises indefinitely, highlighting the benefits of lifelong balance exercises while stressing that individualized plans are key to effective management.

Join us while I share common questions from patients with dizziness and unsteadiness. Tune in to gain valuable insights, feel supported, and become part of a community dedicated to enhancing well-being through knowledge and shared experiences.

What other questions do you have about dizziness? Please send them in, and let’s navigate this journey together.

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Welcome to another insightful episode, in which we delve into the nuanced world of Functional Neurological Disorders (FND). For those familiar with our past episodes, we favor engaging and catchy titles, and this one is no exception. Today, we spotlight Functional Neurological Disorders and their wide array of symptoms.

Despite its relative obscurity—even within healthcare circles—FND is more prevalent than many realize. Our guest, renowned neurologist Dr. Jon Stone, defines FND as a condition stemming from functional issues in the nervous system rather than structural damage. Think of it as a disruption in the brain's network communication.

In this episode, we unravel the intricate symptoms associated with FND, ranging from visual disturbances like double vision and visual loss to balance issues, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include limb and joint pain, tremors, chest pain, racing heart rate, and cognitive difficulties such as memory and concentration problems. Research indicates that about one-third of patients visiting outpatient neurology clinics exhibit FND symptoms, often leading to extensive, inconclusive testing that leaves many seeking definitive answers.

The onset of FND is frequently linked to significant physical, emotional, or psychological events, causing trauma without clear medical or psychiatric explanations. Clinically, FND is likened to a "software problem," disrupting communication within the brain and body and affecting sensory, motor, and autonomic nervous systems.

Effectively managing FND involves focusing on regulating the autonomic nervous system. While there is no one-size-fits-all cure, various resources are available to help manage symptoms. Unlike traditional approaches that target specific impairments, FND treatment emphasizes how activities impact the nervous system.

Understanding the concept of internal reserves—akin to fuel in a car—is crucial. Daily obligations can deplete these reserves, making it challenging to maintain usual functionality. Replenishing emotional, physical, and cognitive reserves is essential to manage FND symptoms effectively. The journey of managing FND is comparable to climbing a summit filled with twists and turns; it's a gradual process requiring persistent effort and a holistic approach.

Remember, you’re not alone on this path. Building a support network of healthcare providers, support groups, and loved ones can offer the emotional and practical support needed during challenging times.

Additionally, we've prepared a downloadable workbook featuring 10 activities designed to help decrease FND symptoms. Don't forget to check the Show Notes for this and other valuable resources. Join us as we explore these aspects and more, shedding light on FND and fostering a community of understanding and support.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• CLICK HERE to download the 10 activities to help your symptoms..
• Take advantage of the Vestibular Disorders Association resources.
• Check out the video on Box Breathing.

Looking for more resources? CLICK HERE to visit our website, explore our blogs, and sign up for our newsletters.