Loss of balance and development of vertigo are part of the aging process, and probably occur because of changes in small blood vessels in the brain.

Lately, there has been research showing that a 2 percent nitroglycerin ointment can significantly help maintain good balance.

The ointment is applied to the skin over a muscle (usually twice per day, but it can be used three times a day if necessary), and is rubbed into the muscle area to be absorbed. The user should not take a shower for three hours after application in order to ensure proper absorption. It can, however, be used immediately after taking a shower.

The amount to use varies with a patient’s blood pressure.

If a person has low blood pressure in the range of 120 over 60, then about an eighth of an inch of the ointment should be applied twice per day.

If blood pressure is in the range of 130 to 140 over 70, about one-half inch is applied twice a day. If blood pressure range runs higher, then three-fourths of an inch is applied twice a day.

The same protocol can be used for vertigo, applying nitroglycerin ointment in the evening when the patient gets ready to go to bed and again in the morning after taking a shower.

The effectiveness against vertigo is still being studied, and is not yet as clearly understood as the usefulness in keeping balance.

The nitroglycerin in the ointment causes dilatation of the small blood vessels in the brain.

Based on my experience in dealing with patients with balance problems and vertigo, this treatment is something worth discussing with your physician.