Dizziness & Balance Problems
Dizziness and balance disorders (also called Vestibular Disorders) occur frequently and can affect people of all ages. According to the National Institutes of Health as many as 90 million Americans complain to their physician at least once about dizziness.
Many people do not know, however, that most of these cases are caused by an inner ear disorder. Although most often the causes of dizziness are not serious, dizziness can lead to falls and other more serious problems. For that reason, dizziness or balance problems should be brought to the attention of your physician.
Some Common Causes
- Meniere’s Disease
- Labyrinthitis – inner ear infection
- Viral infections
- Head trauma
- High or low blood pressure
- Some medication or combination of medications
- Tumors
- Vascular – reduced blood flow to the inner ear due to a rupture of tiny blood vessels in the inner ear
- Neuronitis – irritation of the nerve from the inner ear to the brain
- Other neurologic disorders
Testing for Vestibular Problems
Various tests can be performed to evaluate the cause of the problem. The most recommended tests are:
- Electronystagmography (ENG)
- MRI or CAT Scans
- Posturography
- Rotation Tests
- Hearing Tests Other tests depending on symptoms and history
Treatment
The treatment will vary depending on the cause and diagnosis. In mild cases, symptoms may go away on their own. Other cases require treatment, which may include:
- Medications
- Otolith Repositioning
- Vestibular Rehabilitation
- Physical Therapy
- Diets
- Surgery
- Various other treatments depending on origin of the problem.
