Vertigo is a condition that affects many people. When the patient suffers an attack, he or she experiences a sensation of spinning, and may even fall down due to the accompanying dizziness. People suffering from vertigo should seek professional medical advice as the condition may worsen if left untreated. Vertigo can prove to be potentially dangerous especially if you succumb to an attack while driving or crossing the road.
The human body has a complex mechanism that helps to maintain a sense of balance. This mechanism consists of the inner ears, eyes, skin, and the central nervous system. Vertigo is most commonly caused due to an imbalance in either the central nervous system, or the inner ears. If the brain does not receive an adequate supply of blood, it can lead to vertigo. Influenza and cold viruses attack the nerves connecting the inner ear to the brain and can also lead to vertigo. In fact infections of the inner ear are probably the single largest cause of vertigo. Injuries to the inner ear can also lead to vertigo. Vertigo attacks can also be experienced due to allergic reactions to food or dust particles. Diseases such as syphilis and multiple sclerosis can also cause vertigo.
Yoga Postures For Vertigo
Yoga has a direct effect on the sympathetic nervous system. It helps to improve the blood circulation to the head and other parts of the body and increases the efficiency of the central nervous system. Yoga postures can help to alleviate dizziness and restore a sense of balance. Some of the Yoga poses that are beneficial for vertigo are the Mala Asana (Garland pose), Salamaba Sirsasana (head stand), Hala Asana (Plough posture), Paschimottana Asana (Back bend), and Shrava Asana (Corpse Pose). Other Yoga techniques that are beneficial for the treatment of vertigo include the Nadi Sodhana Pranayama and the Sanmukhi Mudra.
I would advise the student in your yoga class to seek professional medical health, if she has not already done so. Vertigo poses additional hazards to the elderly because of the possibility of falling down and breaking bones. Since she suffers from vertigo attacks when coming up from a prone position, I would also advise that she try the Mala Asana and avoid postures that precipitate an attack of vertigo. There are also dietary changes that should be incorporated to reduce the incidence of vertigo. In particular, salt intake must be curbed as excess salt impairs the circulation of blood.
