I had AM vertigo twice last week. In a word, awful. Happily I am again able to stand up after waking safely and without needing to look closely at the toilet.

What changed? A lot….

1. Put on special energy bracelet and a patch from Mme. Awesome
2. Lots of water; I think I was genuinely not drinking as much as when I was working as, at work, I’d be at my desk with a cup I’d perpetually be refilling
3. No peanut butter
4. Slept with my head elevated about 20-25 degrees to help sinuses drain for a bit
5. Got up from bed slowly

I read plenty about this over the last few days. Some people have AM vertigo for years it seems. No one wants to be in that club! I also discussed what I’ve been experiencing with a nurse which led to some of the items listed above.

Aside from the spinning room and its consequences, in the conversation with the nurse I became aware that had a headache and the sinus points on either side of my nose suggested my sinuses were full. The internet is ripe with stories and sites about how sinus issues lead to vertigo provided the right search words are entered.

I also learned that the calcium “thingies” which are integral in keeping us balanced can move which can be a cause. Here is an article which explains more and a fix. The nurse was skeptical I needed this treatment.

My opinion is something was causing [excess?] phlegm in my sinuses which was not draining properly which led to pressure on my ear canals which led to vertigo. I am suspicious that peanut butter was at fault, which is sad because it is so tasty. I stopped eating it years ago after noticing that without it I had less headaches and recently started up again. Oh so delicious.

The nurse said water + elevated head help sinuses keep clearer which, to state the obvious, leads to less pressure. I had always wondered why “staying hydrated” was so recommended when sick.

Those Freman must have a low rate of sinus issues. Or the estimated loss of a thimbleful per day is accurate.