Meniere’s disease can strike when a person least expects it. Attacks can result in severe vertigo, debilitating tinnitus, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and even some temporary hearing loss. When an episode begins, it may mean hours of misery for the patient.
One of the things that doctors recommend in connection with Meniere’s is a low sodium diet. This is based on the idea that salt increases fluid retention in the body. When the inner ear retains too much fluid, Meniere’s symptoms can result. However, why does fluid build in the ear in the first place?
Modern studies show that this may have to do with a misalignment of the upper cervical spine related to whiplash injuries that may be sustained in a car accident or during a head injury. As a result, the Eustachian tube, which is responsible for proper fluid drainage in the ear, malfunctions. However, doctors often overlook this underlying cause due to the fact that it may take up to 15 years for such a misalignment to affect the Eustachian tubes to the point that Meniere’s occurs.
To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and vertigo download our complimentary e-book How to Naturally Relieve Vertigo without Drugs by clicking the image below.
How the Neck Affects Meniere’s Disease
The fact is that the C1 vertebrae (atlas) is close enough to affect the Eustachian tubes if misaligned. The subluxation may also affect the brainstem and the proper flow of blood to the brain. These factors all come into play when you look at the symptoms of Meniere’s, especially vertigo.
One study was performed involving 139 Meniere’s patients, most of whom could remember a head or neck trauma that occurred before the condition set in. When upper cervical chiropractic care was administered, patients saw a dramatic decrease in symptoms, particularly vertigo. This makes a good case for seeking upper cervical chiropractic care if one has ever experienced head or neck trauma and now suffers from vertigo or Meniere’s disease.
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