Jul 17 2024 61 mins 1
Devices—can’t live with them, can’t live without them. When I was in the first two years of my vestibular disorder I remember longing to turn back the clock to the 1800’s. Televisions, computer screens, even my phone sent my nervous system reeling so it took me years to return to modern communication. And because I wasn’t connecting digitally during that time, I had no idea others experienced the same problem as me and became very isolated. When we are symptomatic, trying to scroll through an article on the phone or watch a movie on a tablet can be torture. Attending a Zoom meeting with multiple people talking and moving can be unbearable. Even texting back and forth can be dizzying. But staying connected is an important part of our recovery, and this often is through virtual mediums, so it is important to use every tool available to improve our ability to function while using a digital device. Even small changes can have a big impact. In this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast, we take some time to explore these challenges and discuss a multitude of ways to make our digital companions more user-friendly.
This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media. https://unfixedmedia.com/
About the Guests:
Dr. Cheryl Berger-Israeloff has more than 20 years experience practicing optometry and focuses her practice on a subspecialty called neuro-visual optometry, which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of vision-based problems commonly found in the brain-injured population. Dr. Israeloff is a pioneer in the optometric treatment of conditions that cause blurred vision, motion sickness, and headaches. She graduated from Cornell University and SUNY College of Optometry.
Alexandra Biss has had dizzy symptoms since she was in her teens, but she officially started her vestibular journey during the start of the COVID pandemic in 2020 when she completely lost her balance and was unable to walk without support. She was ultimately diagnosed with chronic vestibular migraines that stripped her independence and stability. After multiple doctor visits she finally met a neurologist who was a vestibular specialist. While her symptoms are still prominent, through medication and vestibular therapy she has begun getting back on track. She currently works as an underwriting analyst at an insurance firm in Canada and has started running, which is now a central passion of hers. On the days she was bed bound, never once did she think she would be able to take part in any sport again. Her newly-found love for running has allowed her to regain stability and confidence. She has completed two half marathons, both raising money for VeDA, and is currently preparing for her first full marathon this coming May.
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.
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