Phone - (239) 321-5239 Website - Martina Audiology and Hearing Services, LLC

Blog - Hearing Aids Fort Myers FL

Dizziness and Balance Issues

Dizziness and balance disorders are a common

issue for people all over the world. Many are so

severe that they warrant a visit to a physician.

Being “dizzy” can describe a variety of

symptoms including: lightheadedness (feeling

faint and/or weak), vertigo (spinning), or just

feeling unsteady and off-balance. It is necessary

to understand that these feelings are only

symptoms, and not typically a disease or

disorder. Dizziness may occur as a result of conflicting messages

sent to the brain from different areas of the balance system.

The balance system is comprised neural messages from the inner

ear, eyes, and central nervous system. Inconsistent messages

from even one of these areas can cause any of the previous

symptoms described along with hyperventilation and blurred

vision.

While balance difficulties may be so severe they are

incapacitating, serious conditions are less likely to be associated,

and appropriate treatment can usually be prescribed.

Management of the issue will depend on the cause. Underlying

causes may include metabolic irregularities, allergies, head

trauma, and shock. Disturbances are often due to issues in the

inner ear’s balance system.

Phone - (239) 321-5239 Website - Martina Audiology and Hearing Services, LLC

Blog - Hearing Aids Fort Myers FL

The balance system of the inner ear is responsible for detecting

gravity, motion, and changes in bodily position. Inner ear fluids

may be imbalances, infections of the inner ear may be present, or

blood circulation in the inner ear is disrupted. Other associated

diseases and disorders are Meniere’s Disease, cochlear hydrops,

autoimmune inner ear disease, tumors of the 8th cranial nerve

(hearing and balance nerve), or ototoxic/vestibulotoxic

medication effects.

Evaluation of balance is completed via vestibular testing. A

variety of tests may be performed based on your symptoms.

Some evaluations will require you to lie still and quiet, while

others will require you to sit, lie, or stand in a variety of positions

while watching lights move in various ways. Some of the tests

that may be performed are: Electronystagmography (ENG),

Electrocochleography (ECochG), Fistula Testing, Computerized

Dynamic Posturography (CDP), Rotational chair testing, and

Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential (VEMP) evaluation.

Treatments may include prescription medications that aid in

reducing or eliminating symptoms of vertigo and motion sickness.

Other medications may include vasodilators, diuretics,

antihistamines, steroids, anti-inflammation, and sedatives. Diet

and specific exercises may be prescribed to reduce dizziness.

Rarely will surgical intervention be necessitated.

Phone - (239) 321-5239 Website - Martina Audiology and Hearing Services, LLC

Blog - Hearing Aids Fort Myers FL

If you or a loved one is suffering with these symptoms, do not

hesitate to contact an otolaryngologist or audiologist today! The

quicker you are diagnosed, the sooner your treatment can begin!

Feel better again. No more worrying about dizzy episodes!

Contact your local provider today! Let them help you find answers

to your dizziness and balance issues.