Vertigo, often caused by disoriented calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear, causes unpleasant sensations of spinning and nausea. Here is a simple and practical guide to understand this phenomenon and discover effective methods to remedy it.
The role of crystals in the inner ear
The inner ear naturally contains small calcium crystals called otoliths, which play a key role in our balance. These crystals are located on a gelatinous membrane, above sensory hairs connected to nerves sending signals to the brain. By adding mass to the gelatinous membrane, these crystals increase the sensitivity of the hairs to movement and gravity, allowing the body to detect its position in space.
However, vertigo occurs when these crystals detach and move to other areas of the inner ear, disrupting sensory communication between the ear and the brain. This phenomenon leads to a feeling of imbalance and intense dizziness.
Causes of Crystal Displacement
Normally, these loose crystals are absorbed naturally by the ear’s lymphatic fluid, which contains little calcium, in about 20 hours. However, a variety of factors can slow down this dissolution and cause persistent vertigo:
Head trauma: A blow to the head can dislodge the crystals and move them to problem areas.
Infections: Some inner ear infections can also cause this displacement.
Medications: Some medical treatments alter the calcium concentration in the lymph, delaying the dissolution of the crystals.
Aging: As we age, the body tends to lose calcium crystals, increasing the risk that they will move.
The links between calcium and vertigo
Studies have highlighted a correlation between the concentration of calcium in the lymph and vertigo. People who suffer from vertigo often have a higher concentration of calcium in their inner ear, which prevents the crystals from dissolving quickly. This calcium buildup is also associated with osteoporosis, a disease where calcium is abnormally deposited in soft tissues.
The importance of vitamin D to dissolve crystals
A key nutrient for regulating calcium in the body is vitamin D. This vitamin promotes better absorption of calcium in the intestine, making its absorption up to 20 times more efficient. However, many people are deficient in vitamin D, especially as they age, which could contribute to the persistence of dizziness.
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