Unfortunately, these words are heard by far too many people. Although this may be true in that the problem really is in your head, (anatomically), one would anticipate that with the myriad of information on brain based disorders available today, that a far more specific diagnosis could be rendered, or, that a referral to an appropriately trained doctor would be offered.

As an example, dizziness is in the top three reasons why one would go to see their doctor. The primary treatment rendered more often than not is to offer vestibular suppressant medication such as Meclizine, despite the knowledge base, which suggests that this drug not only will not help, but also will actually hinder the natural course of recovery, and, will also cause imbalance associated with disequilibrium. It is often at this point that one is told to just learn to live with it.

Many of my patients who were told these exact words prior to seeing me are probably reading this article and nodding with an understanding, having had the benefits of proper treatment and returning to their normal lives. . Being told that your problem is in your head and you need to learn to live with it simply means that the doctor cannot find anything wrong with you, but this does not mean that a treatment doesn't exist. If your physician does not refer you to the appropriate specialist, it is up to you as the patient to be proactive, and seek the course of treatment on your own.

In this age of providers who specialize in the most detailed areas of medicine and with highly niche practices, it is not difficult to find someone specializing and successfully treating any type of disorder imaginable. The Internet is a literal wealth of information and can be used to find just about anything that you are looking for. Many of my patients find me from our website, (below), performing searches for answers pertaining to vertigo, dizziness, ADD ADHD, brain injury, coma and other brain based disorders. Most will, in retrospect, consider this the smartest time they have spent in pursuing treatment options. Many area physicians refer their difficult cases to me, realizing that I have extensive training in areas that they do not, and that I can help many individuals that they cannot. So, if your doctor should tell you your problem is in your head, and you must learn to live with it, take control of your health, and pursue more genuine treatment options on your own. You'll be happy you did.

Dr. Scopelliti has over 1000 hours in post doctoral neurology, and is board certified. He is medical director of the Jersey Shore Regional Center for Vertigo, Dizziness and Dystonia , which is located at the 279 Professional Arts Bldg at the rear of Monmouth Medical Center, in Long Branch, NJ. With over ten years specializing, his office focuses on the drug free management of patients with vertigo, dizziness, balance loss, presyncope, dystonia and headaches, as well as other cognitive disorders. Dr. Scopelliti offers a free no obligation consultation to discuss your problem prior to the commencement of any examination/treatment. The office can be reached at (732) 229-5250 to arrange a free consultation, ($75 value). This includes a free balance test/fall risk screen. Dr. Scopelliti has a wealth of information updated weekly on the web at We also have a wonderful new Guest Book page, with comments posted from real patients. Just go to the guest book link at the top of the home page to view them.