Dizziness and tinnitus are common symptoms in older adults or those experiencing prolonged stress. Dr. Kim Ngan, a neurologist at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explains that while these symptoms may be fleeting, they can indicate complex disorders related to cerebral circulation and the vestibular system. Prompt and proper intervention can improve symptoms and enhance quality of life.

Older adults, or those experiencing prolonged stress, often suffer from dizziness and tinnitus. Photo: Shutterstock

Older adults, or those experiencing prolonged stress, often suffer from dizziness and tinnitus. Photo: Shutterstock

"When I stand up, everything spins, I lose my balance, my head feels heavy, and there's a buzzing in my ears," describes Mr. Cuong (50, Hanoi), who initially dismissed his dizziness and tinnitus. He attributed the symptoms to fatigue. However, when they recurred, accompanied by insomnia and memory loss, he sought medical attention and was diagnosed with cerebral circulatory disorder and vestibular dysfunction.

In Vietnam, the prevalence of dizziness and tinnitus is increasing, affecting younger demographics. Individuals over 40 and those under chronic stress are particularly vulnerable.

Beyond discomfort, persistent dizziness and tinnitus can disrupt daily life, increasing the risk of falls, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating, ultimately diminishing quality of life.

Dr. Ngan identifies two common causes: poor blood circulation, especially in the microcirculation of the brain and inner ear, and issues within the vestibular system and related neurological components responsible for balance and movement control.

According to Dr. Ngan, managing dizziness and tinnitus is straightforward when the root cause is addressed. Many patients experience recurrence because they self-medicate with anti-nausea or anti-vertigo drugs, treating only the symptoms. For effective and rapid improvement, she recommends more sustainable interventions.

Improving cerebral blood circulation is often the most effective and sustainable approach. Studies have shown that standardized Ginkgo Biloba extract (EGb 761) can improve blood flow in the microvessels of the inner ear and brain, reducing dizziness and tinnitus. EGb 761 works by increasing blood flow, neutralizing free radicals, providing strong antioxidant effects, and protecting vestibular nerve cells from damage.

A November 2021 study in Frontiers in Neurology found significant improvement in the frequency and intensity of chronic dizziness symptoms after 12 weeks of using EGb 761 at 160 mg daily. Another study in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy documented a marked reduction in tinnitus severity after using EGb 761.

Vestibular rehabilitation exercises, practiced for 10-15 minutes daily, can also help manage dizziness and tinnitus. These exercises help the vestibular system adapt and regain balance. Effective exercises include head movements to reduce dizziness, gaze stabilization exercises to improve eye control and balance, and walking combined with head rotations to help the vestibular system process complex movements.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and engaging in suitable exercises can improve the condition. Photo: Shutterstock

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and engaging in suitable exercises can improve the condition. Photo: Shutterstock

Lifestyle adjustments are crucial for managing dizziness and tinnitus. Patients should prioritize sufficient sleep and stress reduction. Limiting alcohol, coffee, and stimulants can reduce sudden dizziness episodes. A diet rich in nutrients beneficial for the nervous system and circulation, such as B vitamins, omega-3s, and magnesium, is recommended. Gentle exercise like walking and yoga can improve balance and support vestibular function.

"Dizziness and tinnitus are manageable if patients are proactive, from seeking medical advice and adjusting their lifestyle to choosing appropriate solutions. Daily perseverance is key to maintaining health and long-term balance," emphasizes Dr. Ly Thi Kim Ngan.

The Dan