Vertigo: Staying safe when you have balance problems
How can you make your environment safer?
You can make your home safer by:
- Eliminating throw rugs and using nonskid mats.
- Installing grab bars near the bathtub and toilet.
- Using night-lights.
- Keeping floors dry to prevent slipping.
- Storing household items on low shelves to eliminate the need to climb or reach high. If climbing is essential, use a step stool with handrails.
- Keeping driveways, sidewalks, and interior walkways clear of anything that might cause you to trip.
Personal tips that can help prevent injury during an episode of vertigo include:
- Avoid driving or working at heights.
- Wear shoes with low heels and nonslip soles.
- Keep your shoes tied.
- Alert family and friends to your condition and how they can help during an attack of vertigo.
- Know whether medications you take can affect your sense of balance.
Print out the following safety checklists, write the date on each one, and check all items that you can. Do this once a month to see how you are progressing with making your home environment safe. Try to get all items checked.
- This list of items can help you prepare for an episode of vertigo, such as by making sure someone else knows about your vertigo and avoiding driving when having an episode: checklist for personal considerations
(What is a PDF document?).
- This list can help you keep your home free from clutter and obstacles that could cause you to fall during an episode of vertigo: checklist for the home environment.
- This list can help prevent injuries in the bathroom and kitchen: checklist for the bathroom and kitchen
Test Your Knowledge
A precaution you can take to make your environment safe if you have vertigo is:
A precaution you can take if you have vertigo is:
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| Author: | Sabra L. Katz-Wise Ralph Poore | Last Updated: November 7, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Barrie J. Hurwitz, MD - Neurology | |
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