Several factors may contribute to this imbalance:
Head injury: A fall or blow can cause the crystals to become dislodged.
Aging: As we age, these structures become more fragile.
Certain ENT infections: These can disrupt the balance system.
Medications: Some medications affect calcium metabolism.
Calcium or vitamin D deficiency: Our diet also plays a key role!
The surprising link between vitamin D, calcium, and dizziness.
There's a direct link between vitamin D, calcium, and balance. When the inner ear contains too much calcium or is unable to excrete it properly, crystals dissolve more slowly. Studies have even shown that people with osteoporosis—and therefore calcium imbalances—are more susceptible to dizziness.
The solution? Ensure adequate vitamin D intake, which helps the body properly absorb and utilize calcium. Deficiency can worsen symptoms. Some doctors recommend taking 10,000 to 20,000 IU of vitamin D for chronic conditions—under medical supervision, of course.
Good allies in combination with vitamin D
For increased effectiveness, vitamin D is beneficial in combination with:
Vitamin K2: directs calcium to bones and prevents its accumulation in soft tissues.
Magnesium: Supports vitamin D and limits excess calcium.
These three elements form a vital trio for maintaining body balance.
Simple Exercises to Reposition the Otoliths
: Additionally, you can perform exercises that help reposition the otoliths. Often recommended by physical therapists, these gentle movements help return the otoliths to their original position.
One of the most well-known techniques is the Epley maneuver, often recommended to relieve dizziness associated with BPPV.
You don't have to be a gymnast: simply tilt your head at a specific angle, hold still for a few seconds, and then change position. An instructional video or guidance from a healthcare professional will help you perform this exercise safely at home.
A slight imbalance… with very real consequences.
Sometimes even a single grain of sand can disturb our balance. However, with a few careful movements and a little patience, dizziness can be significantly reduced or even eliminated altogether.
