Introduction
Many people experience the spinning
sensation of
vertigo. The loss of balance it causes puts you at
risk for falling and can also affect your quality of life if your fear of
falling leads to a less active lifestyle.
Vertigo may be a
lifelong symptom of conditions such as
Ménière's disease or
benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). But if
you have vertigo, you can reduce your risk of injury and remain active by
taking personal precautions and making your home environment safe.
How can you make your environment safer?
You can
make your home safer:
- Do not use throw rugs. Use nonskid
mats.
- Install grab bars near the bathtub and
toilet.
- Use night-lights.
- Keep floors dry to prevent
slipping.
- Store household items on low shelves to eliminate the
need to climb or reach high. If climbing is essential, use a step stool with
handrails.
- Keep driveways, sidewalks, and interior walkways clear
of anything that might cause you to trip.
Personal tips that can help prevent injury during an
episode of vertigo:
- Avoid driving.
- Avoid working at
heights.
- Wear shoes with low heels and nonslip
soles.
- Keep your shoes tied.
- Alert family and friends
to your condition and how they can help during an attack of
vertigo.
- Know whether medicines you take can affect your sense of
balance.
Using a safety checklist(What is a PDF document?) can help you make your home environment safe. Use it to be sure that your living space is free from clutter and that your bathroom and kitchen are safe.
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine