Dizziness is one word that may be used to describe two distinct feelings—lightheadedness (faintness) and vertigo. According to new studies there are effortless and inexpensive remedies for people who suffer from consistent dizziness.

Lightheadedness is defined as a feeling where one may feel as if he/she will "pass out," whereas vertigo is the feelings that one’s surroundings is moving, despite the fact there is no actual movement.

Lucy Yardley, a professor at the University of Southampton, has compiled a number of easy exercises including “vestibular rehabilitation” or “balance retraining” that can be done at home, into a booklet to provide help for those who suffer from constant dizziness. The exercises includes repeating routines such as turning your head right to left and back again or nodding your head up and down.

Yardley monitored 300 individuals who were chosen to either receive their routine medical care, the booklet based exercises, or booklet based exercises along with telephone support from a healthcare expert.

A number of patients suffer from dizziness that is caused by inner ear problems. There were was also a number of patients who were not aware they suffered from dizziness.

The patients involved in the study who were assigned exercises in conjunction with telephone support from a medical expert, stated positive feedback. Many was said to feel better at the end of the study compared to those who were assigned their current medical routine. Many experienced a reduced amount in dizzines in weeks and the beenfits lasted for at least a year. Those who did not receive professional support, and only participated in the booklet exercises, also displayed a better recovery. Of the 300 participants, five percent receiving booklet care with support described their symptoms worsening, whereas 15 percent of those receiving medical routine care expressed worsening symptoms.

Although dizziness is reported to be somewhat common in adults, the condition is not linked to any specific age group. What is known is that people who suffer from dizziness may experience the possibility of falling, and the concern of falling may cause some to draw back on regular daily activities to reduce the risk of injuries and healthcare costs.

Professor Yardley believes by giving people who suffer from chronic dizziness an inexpensive and easy option it will have "potential to improve their quality of life."

Natasha Harrington-Benton, UK Director of the Ménière's Society stated, "We are pleased to be able to provide access to the exercise booklets for both patients and health professionals and, to-date, we have distributed over 8,000 copies."

Professor Yardley will present this study to the World Organization of National College, Academies (WONCA) Conference July 5.

The study was published in the British Medical Journal.