Worsening Vertigo but Clear MRI

[rannecv]

Hey everyone,

I am not sure if this is the correct place to post, but I am at a loss as to where to go. Lately my mom has been experiencing some horrible dizziness, or possibly vertigo. She has had an MRI of her head and the test came back clear, so can we rule out anything going on in her head? Not only that, but within the last year, she has begun to experience what we have diagnosed as exertion headaches. These are headaches that come on so instantly and severly, she cannot move or breathe. Her dizziness or vertigo becomes so bad that she gets nautious and has to stay in bed all day. She doesn't even feel comfortable enough to drive most days. Is there anyone who can help? I am starting to worry about her, and I hate to see her sick. Please, any help will be much appreciated

[caregiver222]

Londres70 has provided excellent advice.

Vertigo is often due to an infection within the semi-circular canals, or vestibular organs. Usually bacterial. Sometimes viral. Everything swims around.  You also usually get a headache. She has to be extra careful in the bathroom to make sure she doesn't fall. When she has a problem, she should immediately reach for a wall for support or sit down.

An ENT is an appropriate next step.

Generally these problems are treatable.

[Londres70]

What kind of specialist did she see?  Don't you just love it when a physician tells you basically "it is all in your head/psychological?  It sounds like it is Neuro or ENT; don't know which one though.  Keep pushing to get some answers for your poor mother.  I had to do it for my mother and I think she is still here today because I did.  The MRI of the head/brain should have been done WITH CONTRAST.  I am not sure camera sizes.  

I can relate with dealing with smug, indifferent uncaring physicians, but there are alot of good ones that make up for the bad ones.  I had one tell me he could not help me then had the nerve to say that maybe I was "homesick" for the USA; that is when I just moved to France.  I told him it was ok that he did not have answers for me, but don't insult my intelligence.  I couldn't believe the man was a PhD talking that ridiculous.  He could have cared less about me.  

[rannecv]

Thanks for the response,

She has gone to a specialist and he basically told her that she was making it up. ( which of course pissed her off) She has no known medical problems or conditions. Also, when they did the MRI her dr ordered that they use the smallest camera to get the closest images possible.

[Londres70]

Suggestion:  Consult with an ENT specialist to rule an inner ear/vestibular problem.  Does she have any medical conditions?

[rannecv]

I forgot to add that this morning I was talking to her while she was laying down, and the simple movement of her arm made her dizzy.