What is vertigo?

I sometimes have a strange feeling of spinning movement around me. A friend of mine in the health sector believed that I am suffering from Vertigo. Kindly let me know what this is all about.

Andrew (by SMS)

Vertigo is a sensation that the environment around you is spinning in circles. It can make you feel dizzy and off-balance. Vertigo is a symptom of lots of health conditions rather than a disease itself, but it can occur along with other symptoms.

Other symptoms you might experience when you have vertigo include: Nausea and vomiting, dizziness, balance issues, hearing loss in one or both ears, tinnitus (Ringing in the ears), motion sickness as well as a feeling of fullness in the ears.

Vertigo can be caused by; Migraine headaches, certain medications including some antibiotics, and hypertensive drugs, stroke, diabetes, head injuries, prolonged bed rest, ear surgery and low blood pressure. Move slowly when standing up, turning your head or performing other triggering movements. Sleep with your head elevated on two pillow, and lie in a dark, quiet room to reduce the spinning sensation. Sit down as soon as you feel dizzy. Squat down instead of bending over at the waist when picking something up. Turn on the lights if you get up during the night.

Use a cane or walking stick if you feel like you might fall. If you have severe or frequent vertigo, talk to your doctor about ways to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

READ ALSO: My problem with vertigo