Hearing and Balance Disorders
Audiologists specialize in treating not only hearing loss but also balance disorders like dizziness, vertigo, and conditions such as Meniere’s disease. Here’s an overview of how the auditory and balance systems function, the causes of dizziness, and available treatments.
What Causes Dizziness?
Dizziness is a symptom, not a disease, and can range from mild unsteadiness to severe spinning sensations (vertigo). It often stems from issues in the auditory system, including the inner ear, which plays a critical role in maintaining balance. Causes include:
- Inner ear fluid imbalances or infections
- Blood circulation problems
- Head trauma or injury
- Neurological disorders
The Ear’s Role in Balance
The ear is integral to hearing and balance, with three main parts working together:
- Outer Ear: Gathers sound and directs it to the eardrum.
- Middle Ear: Transmits sound vibrations via three tiny bones (ossicles) to the inner ear.
- Inner Ear: Houses the cochlea (hearing) and vestibular labyrinth (balance). Fluid movement in the cochlea generates electrical signals interpreted by the brain as sound, while fluid in the semicircular canals and vestibule helps detect motion and maintain balance.
Common Balance Disorders
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Sudden dizziness caused by loose calcium deposits in the inner ear.
- Triggered by head movements and often treated with repositioning exercises.
Meniere’s Disease
- Characterized by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear pressure.
- Caused by increased inner ear fluid pressure and managed with medication, dietary changes, or surgery.
Vestibular Neuritis
- Inflammation of the balance nerve, leading to prolonged dizziness.
- Symptoms often improve over time with medication and therapy.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
A thorough evaluation may include:
- Hearing and balance tests
- Imaging studies (e.g., MRIs)
- Blood tests to identify metabolic or circulatory causes
Treatment Options
- Medical Management:
- Anti-dizziness medications
- Diuretics to reduce inner ear fluid pressure
- Dietary adjustments to minimize triggers (e.g., reducing salt or caffeine)
- Vestibular Therapy:
- Physical therapy focusing on balance exercises and habituation techniques.
- Surgical Options (for severe cases):
- Endolymphatic Shunt: Drains excess fluid in the inner ear.
- Labyrinthectomy: Removes the inner ear balance organ (for non-hearing ears).
- Vestibular Neurectomy: Severs the balance nerve while preserving hearing.
Living with Dizziness
Lifestyle adjustments, like moving slowly, using assistive devices, and practicing vestibular exercises, can significantly improve symptoms. Early diagnosis and tailored treatment can help restore balance and quality of life.
