A disappointing visit to the neurotologist.
I visited the neurotologist this week after getting my appointment changed from July to now. I was hoping that after getting the caloric testing done, we would finally have some answers about what exactly could be done to make me feel better.
So I went in with my fingers crossed, not quite knowing what to expect. I saw the same doctor as last time, and he had the results of my caloric test in hand.
I was completely shocked when he said, as he was flipping through the pages, “It looks like your results were normal.” I didn’t quite know what to say.
I was prepared for anything except that I think. I asked him why the tester had seemed to indicate that results pointed to damage in the right ear, and he said he had no idea, that the results he had in front of him indicated normal function in both ears.
I then asked quite a few more questions (since I was quite surprised by the results), and he said that sometimes, the brain can compensate for the damage completely, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll feel totally normal.
I was a bit disappointed by this answer, since I had hoped there was more that could be done. I told him how much the symptoms were bothering me, and that I was having trouble even walking around some days. And how driving and other movement-intensive activities make things much worse.
He was empathetic, but said that he had a limited capacity to help make me feel better. He then prescribed 12.5 milligrams of meclizine, which he said could possibly help with the sensations coming from a damaged vestibular nerve (if that was actually the cause).
I then asked about vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), which he didn’t think would be useful at this point, since it had been so long. I have actually heard otherwise — that VRT can still be useful even after quite a bit of time has elapsed.
So I was insistent on the VRT, but it looks like I’ll have to pay for it out of my own pocket (ouch). I hope it’s not too expensive, or that my drug plan at work will cover it. But at this point, I’m willing to try anything to feel better, no matter what the cost.
I hope there’s better news in store for me soon.
3 Comments, Comment or Ping
Damon Lawson
Dear Vertigo Guy,
I am sorry to hear about your dilema, but I think there is hope with VRT,
As the CEO of SportKAT, LLC, a world leader in manufacturing technologically advanced equipment for improving balance, I would like to share with you some important information might help your vertigo; using a product called the SportKAT or the Korebalance.
You will be delighted to know that our family of products is helping return balance function to patients all over the world. The technique is simple and the results are incredible. Our patented system uses an unstable platform and a computer to provide exercise to the Neurosensory System, requiring all three of the peripheral systems (Visual, Vestibular and Proprioceptive) to work together to perform a function. The functional results span from no longer needing a walker to grounded jet pilots recovering from vertigo and back in the cockpit within 2 weeks!
For over 17 years, SportKAT, LLC (Vista, CA) has been manufacturing these systems which simultaneously engage and train all three peripheral systems. Training with the SportKAT or the new Korebalance System helps improve neuroplasticity, which is the bodies’ ability to find new neurological pathways. This results in improvement with coordinated activities, such as walking; and will help reduce patient falls.
Innumerable patients suffering from various disorders have reported functional improvement from using this system. The disorders include the following: Ataxia, Meniere’s Disease, Peripheral Neuropathy, Presbystasis, Closed Head Injuries, and Traumatic Brain injuries, just to name a few.
The subconscious function of the cerebellum and the skeletal muscles is essential to smooth coordinated movement. SportKAT systems help train this mechanism in order to achieve this movement. In addition, you can count on our systems to generate a “fun factor” creating interest and making patient compliance no longer an obstacle.
To learn more about SportKAT and Korebalance, please visit our website at http://www.sportkat.com or call us toll-free at 1-800-743-0575. Or, please feel free to contact me via e-mail, drlawson@sportkat.com.
To find a Balance Clinic near you that uses the SportKAT or the Korebalance, please contact me at drlawson@sportkat.com.
I hope you get resolution very quickly.
Damon Lawson, President and CEO, SportKAT, LLC
“SportKAT…Creating the tools that help make Miracles™”
Jun 10th, 2008
Vertigo Guy
I hadn’t heard of this type of device before, but thanks for bringing it up. I think like most people suffering from any type of vestibular or balance disorder, I’d certainly be willing to try anything to improve my disequilibrium. I’ll try to read up on your company and product offering.
Jun 12th, 2008
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