ICU - "I See You" - Vestibular Conversations

Caring for oneself with a vestibular disorder is not easy—add infants, children and teens into the mix and the spectrum of experience can span from feeling downright impossible to uniquely rewarding. In honor of Mother’s Day this month and our community of mothers with vestibular disorders, this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast dives into the multi-layered experiences of mothering “dizzy.” We are joined by vestibular patients and mothers, Kayla McCain and Marissa Aldrete to discuss considerations in family planning, pregnancy and vestibular disorders, managing self-care, and how to include family in your vestibular experiences so you feel more supported and less overwhelmed and alone. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Marissa Aldrete is the mother to a fifteen year old son and has been a vestibular patient for over 12 of those years. She lives with vestibular migraine, chronic migraine, and PPPD. When she first developed symptoms, she was a preschool teacher with a three year old at home. Like so many vestibular patients she saw multiple physicians who either thought she had anxiety or wanted to try hefty meds that would leave her unable to function. In 2014, she experienced a remission of symptoms and went back to a “normal” life for the next four years. But in 2018 her symptoms returned with a vengeance and she became housebound. Eventually, under the care of Dr. Shin Beh, she was able to slowly resume life again. Marissa joined VeDA as an ambassador and started an online support group with fellow vestie, Joy Holten. Joy and Marissa also have a podcast, Finding Joy in Your Vestibular Journey. Recently Marissa became a health and wellness coach so she can share what she’s learned with others. Kayla McCain began experiencing symptoms of vestibular neuritis and vestibular migraine in October of 2016. Like many vestibular patients, Kayla fell into despair during the early stages of her diagnosis. However, after getting established with a neurologist (Dr. Shin Beh) and treatment plan, she was able to adapt to her new normal, became an ambassador with VeDA and began sharing her experience online at Truekaylaisms.com. Kayla left the corporate world shortly after her diagnosis and opened her own business (Kayla McCain Marketing) to be able to continue to pursue her love for content marketing while controlling her work environment with daily dizziness. In 2020, Kayla became a mom - something she wasn’t sure was a possibility with a vestibular disorder. Today, she continues to work from home with her two young boys Declan (4) and Greyson (1) while managing the ups and downs of her vestibular migraine. Hosts: Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) https://vestibular.org/ Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media https://unfixedmedia.com/ VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo.

You never thought it would happen. You thought you would work until retirement or beyond, but then along came your vestibular disorder. Now, focusing on a computer screen is a challenge, you can’t drive, walking is a safety hazard, and your concentration is not what it used to be. Getting through a workday is exhausting and frustrating as you struggle to complete tasks that used to be easy for you. Many people who suffer from chronic vestibular disorders find it difficult to continue working. In this episode of the ICU - I See You podcast, we’re going to talk with someone who knows all too well the challenges of applying for disability, as well as a disability attorney who has helped many people successfully file a disability claim. Additional resources about applying for disability with a vestibular disorder go to vestibular.org/disability This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Tracey Pate is the founding member and Managing Attorney of Disability Associates LLC where 100% of her practice focuses on obtaining disability benefits for Social Security disability clients. She has over 30 years' experience representing thousands of disabled individuals before the Social Security Administration, the Office of Hearings Operations, the Appeals' Council and the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. She has been qualified as an expert witness in the field of Social Security disability law and is a sustaining member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimant's Representatives (NOSSCR). She has a passion for people and the law and is energized when she is able to arrive at a solution that benefits all parties involved. Camille Jackson suffered a traumatic brain injury in a freak household accident that altered her life forever. Camille was a lawyer and an accomplished expert in foreign policy. Prior to her accident, she worked in diplomacy for almost ten years, traveling to over twenty countries for meetings and projects with embassies. Camille has suffered with daily disabling dizziness for more than four years without answers or a diagnosis. When applying for disability Camille had to lean heavily on the advocacy skills she honed as an attorney. Today, we’re going to learn from her wisdom and experience. Hosts: Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) https://vestibular.org/ Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media https://unfixedmedia.com/ VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

Each person’s experience of the menopause transition is unique. Changes affect sleep, mood, mental acuity, and subsequently, you guessed it, our vestibular system. Reports of the effect women’s hormones play on their vestibular systems are common, but symptoms vary. During different hormonal periods, some women report a new onset of symptoms, while others report a worsening of existing symptoms, and some even report improvement. In this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast, hosts are joined by Dr. Maja Scrakic and vestibular patient Nina Coslov who discuss personal experiences and research on this important topic. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Dr. Maja Svrakic is a board certified neurotologist. She holds a faculty appointment at the Northwell Health Department of Otolaryngology at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center and is an Associate Professor of Otolaryngology at Zucker School of Medicine, where she is also the Program Director for the Residency in Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery. Dr. Svrakic immigrated from Belgrade, Serbia, graduated summa cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis, and received her medical degree from Columbia University. She completed residency in Otolaryngology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, a fellowship in Neurotology at New York University, and a Masters in Health Professions Pedagogy and Leadership at the Hofstra University School of Education. She has also authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific articles and book chapters. Nina Coslov has experienced episodic dizziness on and off for years and like many of us, navigated countless doctors and hypotheses, tried many therapies, and wondered about the relationship of her dizzy symptoms to hormonal changes. Nina Coslov created Women Living Better (womenlivingbetter.org) to provide anticipatory guidance about perimenopause. Intent on better characterizing the path to menopause, Nina focuses on education and research. Nina and her research partners have published seven papers in peer-reviewed journals. Nina was the lead author on “Symptom experience during the late reproductive stage and the menopause transition: observations from the Women Living Better survey” published in the journal Menopause. She also authored the chapter “Women’s Voices: The Lived Experience of the Path to Menopause” in Each Women’s Menopause: An evidenced Based Resource. Nina received the 2021 Media Award from the North American Menopause Society. Additional resource about vestibular disorders in women: https://vestibular.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/KIWH_062321_Vestibular-Disorders-in-Women_Flyer_v1.pdf Hosts: Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) https://vestibular.org/ Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media https://unfixedmedia.com/ VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo.

Primary care practitioners are often the first healthcare professionals we seek when we feel dizzy, disoriented, or not quite right. Their role is to take a medical history and assess whether the person can be treated immediately with medication or therapy, or whether they need to be referred to a specialist for further testing. One challenge, however, is that by definition, primary care practitioners are generalists and may not know enough about the signs and symptoms of vestibular impairment to triage patients appropriately. The good news is that there are Advanced Practice Providers such as Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants who specialize in otolaryngology that can serve as a first point of contact to help dizzy patients get on the road to recovery more quickly. In this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast we discuss how specialized NPs, APPs, and PAs can help in vestibular healthcare. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Maria Machala is a certified nurse practitioner and the director of the Dizziness and Balance Clinic at the University of Colorado, where she specializes in otology and neurotology. She has a special interest in vestibular migraine and in the overlap between migraine and Meniere’s disease and other vestibular conditions. She serves as a guest lecturer at the Physician Assistant and Nurse Practitioner schools within the University of Colorado and is a clinical mentor to students in these programs. She teaches advanced practice providers who work in otolaryngology how to perform otologic procedures and comprehensive vestibular evaluations. Lindsey Mwesigwa is from Dayton, Ohio where she lives with her husband, son, and 2 dogs. One dog is Jazzy, a German Shepherd who is her service dog. She has been a nurse since 2008 and is currently an associate nurse manager on an advanced cardiac floor. Her vestibular journey began in 2016 with minor episodes of vertigo and dizziness. She had periods of brain fog, and then the true nightmare began in September of 2022 when her episodes became severe and debilitating. She was diagnosed with Vestibular Migraines in October 2022 and then PPPD in November of 2023. Having a vestibular disorder has affected her professional and personal life. She is trying to spread awareness and education to help other vestibular warriors who are suffering get relief with quicker diagnosis and treatment. Hosts: Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) https://vestibular.org/ Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media https://unfixedmedia.com/ VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

We’ve all messed around with art at some point in our lives and with perfectionists at bay, it can be playful, relaxing and revitalizing. But how often do we pick up a paintbrush because it can also be medicine? Personally, when I was in the deepest terrors of MdDS, needle sculpting with wool became a lifeline, and I know I’m not alone when I say that art can soothe frayed nerves, give us a sense of purpose, and also help the quieter subconscious self within have a voice. In this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast we explore how art (in all its forms) can be a useful and powerful tool for those of us living with vestibular disorders, and how you can bring more of this creative act into your life… even if you’re a novice! This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Nicolle Cure is a Colombian-American artist living and working in Miami, Florida. Her abstract paintings explore the relationship between sound and daily life, inspired by her sudden unilateral hearing loss in 2017 and the subsequent diagnosis of Ménière's disease—a vestibular health condition affecting her hearing and balance. Since then, Nicolle has shifted her creative approach and style to illustrate her experience with hearing loss through color and movement. She uses mixed-media techniques, incorporating soft washes and mark-making, to create fluid, abstract, energetic, yet calming paintings. Beyond her art practice, Nicolle is passionate about helping others and raising awareness for causes dear to her heart. In the last seven years, she has partnered with the Hearing Health Foundation and VeDA, donating her time and art to support their fundraising initiatives. You can see Nicolles art at https://www.nicollecure.com/ Jade Chung is a Professional Art Therapist, Integrative Trauma Coach, and Intuitive Healer. Currently based in Vancouver, British Columbia, she works with women who are looking to heal and expand in powerful and creative ways, mind, body, and soul. She is trained in a diversity of modalities that release trauma, rewire the brain, and awaken the soul so that her clients can shift into a life of alignment, authenticity, and embodiment. She is registered with the Canadian Association of Art Therapists and has advanced certifications in integrative trauma work and energy medicine. Learn more about Jade's art and practice at https://www.yourpiece.art/about Hosts: Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) https://vestibular.org/ Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media https://unfixedmedia.com/ VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

For many people with vestibular disorders, what they eat and drink can trigger dizziness, vertigo, nausea, and other symptoms. The good news is that certain dietary modifications can help you manage your symptoms. Figuring out what to eliminate from your diet can be tricky, though. Not only are triggers different for each person, but you also have to be aware of maintaining a balanced diet, and you want it to taste good too. In this episode hosts Cynthia Ryan and Kimberly Warner are joined by guests Dr. Jessica Lieffers, RD and Alicia Wolf of the Dizzy Cook to discuss diet and nutrition for people with vestibular disorders. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Alicia Wolf is a cookbook author, recipe developer, and Vestibular Migraine advocate. She was diagnosed with Chronic Vestibular Migraine in 2016. Originally a self-taught chef, she honed her skills by attending culinary immersion programs in Dallas, TX and France. Alicia’s recipes have been featured by Yahoo!, PARADE, mindbodygreen, and on local morning shows like Today and Good Morning Texas. She is a Vestibular Disorders Association Ambassador and her advocacy work for vestibular migraine has been highlighted by Healthline, American Migraine Foundation, Miles for Migraine, and Self Magazine. Her first cookbook, The Dizzy Cook, was published February 2020 and has been considered an Amazon Bestseller in the Pain Management category. Her new cookbook, The Mediterranean Migraine Diet: A Science Based Roadmap to Control Symptoms and Transform Brain Health, was created in partnership with her neurologist, Dr. Shin Beh. Both books are available almost everywhere books are sold. https://thedizzycook.com/ Dr. Jessica Lieffers is a Registered Dietitian and an Associate Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Saskatchewan. She has published more than 50 peer-reviewed research articles in various areas of nutrition and dietetics. She also teaches in the BSc Nutrition program at the University of Saskatchewan and supervises Masters and PhD students in nutrition. Jessica has been also living with a vestibular disorder since 2018 and brings both professional and patient experience to this podcast. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR DIET AND NUTRITION Clinical Practice Guidelines Meniere’s Disease https://www.entnet.org/quality-practice/quality-products/clinical-practice-guidelines/menieres-disease/ Lifestyle Interventions and Meniere’s Disease (Cochrane Review – Plain Language Summary) https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD015244.pub2/full#CD015244-abs-0002 More information about dietitians: USA https://www.eatright.org/about-rdns-and-ndtrs https://www.eatright.org/find-a-nutrition-expert Canada https://www.unlockfood.ca/en/Articles/About-Dietitians/What-is-a-Dietitian.aspx https://members.dietitians.ca/DCMember/s/find-dietitian?language=en_US VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/.

In the newest episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast, guests Jen Warner and Joy Mohr join the hosts to discuss how having a vestibular disorder affects personal relationships. It can be hard to relate to another person’s experience. This is especially true for people struggling with vestibular impairment because the symptoms are invisible and unpredictable. But, these disorders affect not only the people who are afflicted but their families as well. This episode discusses how to educate others about our experience and communicate our needs. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Joy Mohr’s nightmare began March 2018 after a week long family vacation on a cruise ship. After a week of being home, she knew something was wrong when her "land legs" didn't return and was beyond exhausted. She wasn't bouncing back fresh and rejuvenated from a week off the grind in the Caribbean as she had from prior cruises. As a healthcare provider she researched the possibilities and started making appointments with ENTs and neurologists. She had a list of working diagnoses for over one year and saw many specialists before she was able to get definitive answers. She was first diagnosed with MdDS. During the first year of having MdDS, an invisible disorder, life threw her multiple curve balls increasing stress which led to vestibular migraines, tinnitus, and hyperacusis. The MdDS symptoms wax and wane. She now falls somewhere in the MdDS/PPPD loop given the day, weather, and personal activities. Jennifer (Jen) Warner an Illinois, Washington, Oregon, and New York State licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist with advanced training and certification in trauma-informed care and the treatment of trauma, as well as holistic health and nutrition. She currently specializes in working with individuals living with traumatic stress related to complex chronic illness including but not limited to vestibular disorders, migraine, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and dysautonomia/POTS. As a person who also lives with these conditions, Jen is committed to growing understanding of chronic illness as a trauma and the need for implementing trauma-informed care within organizations that serve this population and their caregivers. Jen currently lives in Chicago with her wife where she maintains a private psychotherapy and consulting practice and continues to see clients remotely across the country. https://www.instagram.com/jenwellnesstherapy/ VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo.

In the newest episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast, guests Dr. Yonit Arthur and Melinda Reed join the hosts to dive into the unnerving vestibular symptom often referred to as Dissociation, Depersonalization and Derealization. These experiences are characterized by a sense of unreality and detachment from one’s surroundings, body, emotions, and self. These experiences are characterized by a sense of unreality and detachment from one’s surroundings, body, emotions and self. Some patients report feeling “strange and not in control of themselves” or “being spacey and out-of-body.” In other words, a very scary occurrence to have on top of the already challenging symptoms of dizziness. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Melinda Reed worked as an Occupational Therapist for thirty five years mostly in pediatrics. She was very active all her life with activities like hiking, biking, running and kayaking. In 2016 she was painting a ceiling for the better part of a day, and the following day woke with a very stiff neck and resulting positional vertigo. She continues to have episodic dizziness as well as neck pain, however, she keeps busy doing the activities she did in the past despite the dizziness. 3 years ago, she retired as an Occupational Therapist, but is also an artist and writer, as well as a part time real estate agent. Dr. Yonit Arthur, AuD (or "Dr. Yo") is a board-certified audiologist, vestibular specialist, and mindbody coach who specializes in helping people with chronic, medically unexplained dizziness and other vestibular symptoms. As part of her commitment to helping as many people around the world as possible via free and low cost education, Dr. Yo has a YouTube channel and podcast called, The Steady Coach, and offers a completely free, comprehensive course to anyone suffering from chronic dizziness symptoms. You can learn more about her work on her website, https://thesteadycoach.com. VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

In this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast, hosts and guests discuss complementary and alternative approaches to supporting your wellness as a person with vestibular dysfunction. If you’re like most people, when you aren’t feeling well you go to see your medical doctor, and hopefully they, in conjunction with other members of your healthcare team, create a treatment plan based on conventional medical practices. What many people don’t know is that when you support your overall wellness using complementary and alternative modalities, you are physically and mentally better able to cope with everyday stressors, and often respond better to conventional treatments. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Emily Englert is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner in Seattle, WA, an author and a wellness coach. Over six years ago she went through a chaotic health crisis with a vestibular condition that took her on a beautiful, and messy, healing journey, and which inspired her to tap into her healer nature. Emily believes that we should all be in the driver's seat when it comes to our health and wellness. She is a proponent of supporting healing from the inside out and addressing the root cause of the symptoms that create ill health in the body. Dr. Kathleen Stross is one of the premier vestibular and neurological physical therapists in the US. Her physical therapy career began in 1989 and quickly focused on the treatment of people with vestibular dysfunction. She developed one of the first Vestibular Rehabilitation programs in the US, developing treatment techniques for those with dizziness and balance disorders. Kathleen’s neurosensory approach to physical dysfunction allows appreciation for the nervous system’s role in processing every stimulus and orchestrating all expression. VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

Vestibular disorders come with horrible symptoms, including vertigo, dizziness, nausea, and brain fog, to mention a few. It’s no wonder we all want a “miracle pill." Unfortunately, no one treatment works for every person. In this episode of the ICU Podcast, the hosts talk to vestibular patient Lily Carillo who has been on that road, as well as Dr. Nicholas Hac, MD who explains how he determines what the appropriate medication is for his patients. If you are interested in joining a VeDA support group you can learn more at https://vestibular.org/article/coping-support/support-groups/ This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/ About the Guests: Dr. Nicholas Hac: Dr. Hac is an assistant professor in the Comprehensive Neurology Division with an ambulatory focus in vestibular and oto-neurology and clinical practice as a neurohospitalist. Dr. Hac completed his residency at Northwestern in 2020 and a neurohospitalist instructorship in 2021 before pursuing a fellowship in vestibular and ocular motor otoneurology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Lily Carillo: When Lily was in her early 20’s she had management positions that made her feel stressed and anxious. Then in her mid 20's she had her first vertigo episode. It was scary and lasted about three days. She went to many specialists who prescribed medication for dizziness, but none of these drugs helped. In her late 30's she had a vertigo episode that lasted more than a month. She couldn't walk around her home and couldn't work. Brain fog and fatigue were there everyday. Finally she found a vertigo specialist, and, as she describes, that’s when “the miracle happened.” VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

A support group provides a unique and critical service: acceptance. This forum allows individuals to ask questions and to learn in a non-judgmental and safe environment. Participants know that everyone attending the meeting understands and has compassion for the functional difficulties of getting through each day. As a result, less frustration and energy are spent on proving or defining limitations. More energy is available for appreciating the character and companionship offered by others, and recognizing personal self-worth. We know that support groups play an important role in recovering from vestibular dysfunction and discovering your ‘new normal.’ In this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast, hosts Cynthia Ryan and Kimberly Warned talk to two people who have experienced the power of peer support, healthcare provider Sarah Conover and vestibular patient David Morrill. If you are interested in joining a VeDA support group you can learn more at https://vestibular.org/article/coping-support/support-groups/ This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. About the Guests: Sarah Conover is a licensed vestibular physical therapist and certified health coach who helps people recover from dizziness and imbalance so they can get back to work, family responsibilities, and the active pastimes they love. Through one on one telehealth visits and her online group program, Sarah uses a diverse approach to address chronic dizziness as well as the anxiety and fears that often coexist. Sarah has degrees from the University of Evansville and the University of Indianapolis. She obtained Vestibular Competency through the rigorous Herdman program at Emory University in 2005 and also has advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, functional nutrition, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Sarah's services as a PT and a health coach are available at https://www.dizzycoach.com/ David Morrill's vestibular disorder was caused by a stroke. During his recovery he found himself struggling with constant dizziness and imbalance. He didn’t know where to turn until he found VeDA. VeDA helped David understand his disorder and gave him hope that someday he could regain so many things he’d lost to his disability. Today David gives back to the community who supported him. He is the chair of VeDA’s volunteer Ambassador Board, he’s facilitated in-person, virtual, and Facebook support groups, and he is VeDA’s Community Support Coordinator. VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

Most people have probably heard a high-pitched whining noise in their ears at least once. It comes and then it goes, but it’s temporary. However, for some people, that ringing, hissing, whistling, buzzing, or clicking sound is constant. That noise that isn’t a noise is called tinnitus, and it’s generally caused by damage to the auditory system. In this episode of the ICU ("I See You") podcast, the discussion explores the connection between tinnitus and hearing loss, common concerns, and possible treatments and coping strategies. Hosts Cynthia Ryan (VeDA Executive Director) and Kimberly Warner (Unfixed Media Founder & Director) are joined by Dr. Christina Shields, AuD, and Steve Schwier, who shares his personal experience with tinnitus resulting from Meniere's disease. Steve vividly describes the impact of tinnitus on his daily life and the disorienting effect it has. Dr. Shields explains the nature of tinnitus. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. About the Guests: Diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease in 2013, Steve Schwier had been able to do little at that time but stay on his couch and manage his symptoms. But in 2020, Steve decided to get up and ride his bike across America to be the voice of a suffering, silent minority and bring awareness to Meniere’s Disease. His difficult and grueling ride is chronicled in his memoir, “On the Vertigo: One Sick Man’s Journey to Make a Difference.” Despite the horrendous nature of Meniere’s disease, Steve tells his story with humor, grace, and heartfelt reflection. Dr. Christina Shields, AuD is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences at the University of Maryland in College Park. She received a bachelor's degree in Hearing and Speech Sciences, as well as her Clinical Doctorate in Audiology from the University of Maryland. She completed her clinical fourth year placement at the University of Maryland Medical Center in 2013. Her clinical background includes diagnostic audiometric testing, amplification for adult patients, vestibular assessment, and tinnitus, hyperacusis evaluation and management. She currently teaches undergraduate hearing and speech courses and supervises graduate students in the clinic. VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo.

Movement and exercise are two words that can be really triggering for people with chronic illnesses. You may have heard someone say to you “just exercise, you’ll feel better,” but when we take that advice from our doctors the opposite effect might happen. More often than not, picking up a new exercise routine can actually make you feel worse if your symptoms and current state of chronic illness is not considered first and foremost. Exercise CAN be used to your advantage, and you can absolutely reduce your sensitivity to movement, reduce the number of attacks you have, raise your threshold, and improve your quality of life through movement if you approach it with very specific intentions. Today we’ll talk about how and what kind of movement benefits people with vestibular dysfunction. In this episode of the ICU ("I See You") podcast, hosts Cynthia Ryan (VeDA Executive Director) and Kimberly Warner (Unfixed Media Founder & Director) discuss the challenges around movement for vestibular patients. They invite Physical Therapist Dr. Madison Oak and vestibular patient Stephanie B. Looney to discuss this topic, bringing together the patient and healthcare provider perspectives. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. About the Guests Stephanie B. Looney is a 50 year old retired Physician Assistant (PA-C) who worked in the field of dermatology and is a mother of two teenagers. 10 years ago my husband and she visited NYC and while there she experienced a choking episode that changed the course of my life. Three days later, she was in the emergency room with head pain, nausea, and extreme dizziness. After being evaluated and misdiagnosed for over a year, she was eventually diagnosed with vestibular migraine and PPPD. Her vestibular journey has included countless procedures, numerous medications, and therapies to try to improve my symptoms. She has wrestled with my chronic disorders both physically and psychologically, learning along the way that self-compassion and the support of others is a key part of the treatment plan. In the last year and a half she has worked with Dr. Madison Oak, The Vertigo Doctor, who taught her the importance of movement, no matter how small, and its positive impact on the vestibular system. Today she deals with chronic dizziness and weekly migraine attacks while trying to live a fulfilled and meaningful life. Her life looks different now compared to before my diagnosis; however, she has learned to embrace helpful accommodations and know that she is more than just her vestibular disorder. Dr. Madison Oak is a physical therapist who specializes in treatment of Vestibular Migraine, Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness, and other vestibular disorders. Madison is the founder of Vestibular Group Fit, @thevertigodoctor, and Oak Physical Therapy & Wellness. Madison strives to provide excellent, evidence based, vestibular resources that are thorough, helpful, and actually make sense to people who have vestibular disorders. Migraine and dizziness disorders affect SO many people in the US and the world. Madison’s journey began when she was working in an NYC outpatient Physical Therapy clinic. The day she saw an incredibly nervous, acutely dizzy, Manhattan bus driver, followed by a chronically dizzy concierge home visit patient, she realized that many people who need vestibular care cannot always access the care they need. There is not enough information about dizziness, why we get dizzy, and how to treat dizziness. It’s simple, but it feels so scary and complex when you’re actually dizzy. So, she started @TheVertigoDoctor on Instagram, a telehealth clinic in 8 states addressing only vestibular disorders, and Vestibular Group Fit. Between these three, there are accessible resources for all of those who live with vestibular disorders no matter your specific situation!

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, or VRT, is a specialized form of exercise-based therapy designed to alleviate both primary and secondary symptoms of vestibular disorders. VRT uses specific head, body, and eye exercises designed to retrain the brain to recognize and process signals from the inner ear and coordinate them with information from our eyes and muscles. Physical therapists are challenged with creating a customized therapy plan for each patient. While VRT is an evidence-based approach for treating many types of vestibular problems, it’s not always the miracle-cure many patients are hoping for. In this episode of the ICU ("I See You") podcast, hosts Cynthia Ryan (VeDA Executive Director) and Kimberly Warner (Unfixed Media Founder & Director) explore what works and what doesn't when it comes to Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy. They invite Physical Therapist Matt Whitaker and vestibular patient Ashley Chin to discuss this topic, bringing together the patient and healthcare provider perspectives. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. About the Guests Ashley Chin is from Greenville, SC. She is a former Emergency Room RN turned home baker after many medical issues, including vestibular migraine and PPPD. She enjoys baking, crafting, and really anything nerdy including Disney, Star Wars, board games, etc. She and her husband have been married for almost 5 years, and have a sweet Wire Fox Terrier puppy named Luna. Matt Whitaker is a physical therapist with over 20 years of experience. In 1998 he earned his degree from Loma Linda University where he co-founded the vestibular rehabilitation program for the outpatient neurological clinic. He was also a guest lecturer and vestibular instructor for doctoral physical therapy students and neurology residents. For the first decade of his career, he treated patients with neurologic conditions, working in all settings including acute and ICU care, inpatient rehabilitation, home health, and skilled nursing. Over the past fifteen years, he has focused on orthopedic care but remains passionate about helping patients with vestibular issues. Today, Matt is a co-owner of Evolve Physical Therapy, a clinic with two locations in the Portland metro area where he lives with his family. VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo. #LifeRebalanced #MakeVestibularVisible #Vertigo #Vestibular #Tinnitus #Dizzy #Balance

For many people with vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance it can take months or years to get an accurate diagnosis. Emergency room physicians rule out life-threatening conditions and refer patients to their primary care providers, who may be ill-equipped to diagnose vestibular problems or provide an appropriate specialist referral. As a result, people are often tossed back and forth between healthcare providers, many of whom provide little support or guidance, and in the end may end up with one or more inaccurate diagnoses or none at all. In this episode of the ICU ("I See You") podcast hosts Cynthia Ryan (VeDA Executive Director) and Kimberly Warner (Unfixed Media Founder & Director) explore the often long road to diagnosis that many vestibular patients must travel before they finally find out what is causing their symptoms. They invite Dr. Matthew Crowson and vestibular patient Stefanie Adams to discuss this topic, bringing together the patient and healthcare provider perspectives. This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. About the Guests Stefanie Adams Stefanie suffered multiple traumatic brain injuries and had her third concussion in 2017. As soon as she hit her head she felt off-balance and started to sway. Over the next year she developed terrible migraines and dizziness. Eventually, the migraines left, but the dizziness stayed. A year later she discovered that she had a perilymph fistula (a hole in the membrane separating the middle and inner ears) when she got the flu, blew her nose, and the room started to spin. She’s had surgery to repair the fistula and is now a VeDA Ambassador and vestibular advocate. Matthew Crowson, MD, MPA, MASc, FRC Dr. Matthew Crowson is a fellowship-trained ear and skull base surgeon. His primary clinical focus is on diagnosis, medical, and surgical management of balance disorders. Dr. Crowson has been a speaker at national and international hearing & balance research meetings and has authored a textbook and numerous peer-reviewed publications in otology, neurotology and otolaryngology. He has served on the VeDA Board of Directors and Medical Advocacy Committee. He also participates in medical outreach work with prior mission trips to Western Kenya, rural Thailand, and the Canadian Arctic. -- VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at vestibular.org/donate If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit vestibular.org For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit vestibular.org/directory If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at vestibular.org/membership. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo.

Audiological testing can be an important step in helping doctors determine whether the inner ear is the source of a patient’s dizziness. However, if you’ve ever talked with someone who has been through the gamut of tests - it’s not exactly a picnic in the park. Many patients - already ill from symptoms and fearful of tests that can exacerbate them - are anxious about their first audiologist appointment. This episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast covers the topic of audiological testing and the experience of vestibular patients who undergo these tests. Guests Jesus Gomez, audiologist and PhD student, joins the discussion to listen to the experiences of vestibular patient Karen Mizrach. Listen now to this thoughtful and vulnerable discussion about addressing challenges and anxieties that a vestibular patient faces going into, during, and after audiological testing. About the guests: In December of 2017, Karen woke up in the middle of the night with vertigo. After many doctor visits, tests, and treatments, the dizziness and off-balance sensations continued and it has become a chronic condition. Finally, she saw a neurologist who recognized her symptoms as Vestibular Migraine and Cervicogenic Dizziness, and this year PPPD was added to her list of conditions. The most challenging part of these disorders has been the isolation. Karen is divorced with grown children who don’t live close by. Living alone and having to quit her job teaching made this challenge all the more difficult. Finding VeDA was a game-changer! She now feels connected to people who understand and are supportive. Karen has become a VeDA volunteer to give back to the community that has made a difference in her life. Jesus Gomez is an audiologist and first-year Ph.D. student in the vestibular sciences lab at James Madison University. He received his B.S in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Virginia and Doctorate of Audiology from the University of Tennessee, where his interest in vestibular science began under the direction of Dr. Steven Doettl and strengthened during his 4th-year externship at the Cleveland Clinic with Dr. Julie Honaker. His interests are in electrophysiology and vestibular sciences, where he is currently under the mentorship of Drs. Erin Piker and Chris Clinard. His overarching goal is to become a bilingual clinician scientist serving both Spanish and English speaking populations. Hosts: Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) https://vestibular.org/ Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media https://unfixedmedia.com/ This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/ar

Anyone who has ever experienced vestibular dysfunction will tell you, vestibular symptoms are hard to describe. It can be difficult to explain the difference between symptoms like vertigo, dizziness, imbalance, spinning, disequilibrium, and more. Factors like acute symptoms and anxiety can make it even harder to paint a clear picture for your healthcare provider. In this episode, vestibular patient Joy Holten and medical student Marcus Paoletti discuss this issue and provide insight into how your symptoms can be best communicated to your physician. About the guests: Marcus Paoletti is a second-year medical student at Keck School of Medicine, USC. Before that, he attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he received a degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology. He became interested in otolaryngology and healthcare related to the head and neck early in his training due to the complexity of the region’s anatomy and vital importance of these structures. He is also the co-president of the otolaryngology student interest group at his medical school. Joy Holten is a 48-year-old mother of 2 who lives in Austin, TX. In 2018 she began experiencing constant dizziness after an infection. For 3 years she suffered daily symptoms but was still able to work from home. In 2021 that all changed. When her symptoms went from bad to worse she visited the ER 5 times. She was finally forced to take medical leave. Eventually, she found Dr. Shin Bey, one of the leading “dizzy” neurologists in the county, who diagnosed her with Vestibular Migraine and PPPD. Since then, Joy co-founded a YouTube series called “Finding Joy in your Vestibular Journey” and hosts a Zoom support group for fellow vestibular sufferers. Hosts: Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) https://vestibular.org/ Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media https://unfixedmedia.com/ This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. ----- VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/ If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/ For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/ If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo.