Balance disorder

Balance Disorder Illustration A

Balance disorder is a condition that makes an individual feel unsteady or dizzy, as if they are moving, spinning, or floating, even when they are standing still or lying down. Balance disorders can be caused by several different conditions affecting the inner ear, brain, or sensory nerve pathways. The sense of balance is primarily controlled by the vestibular system in the inner ear, alongside inputs from the visual system and the proprioceptors in the muscles and joints, which help the body understand its position in space.

Causes

Balance disorders can have various causes, including but not limited to:

• Vestibular disorders: Problems in the inner ear, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's disease, and vestibular neuritis.
• Neurological disorders: Conditions that affect the brain or nerves, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.
• Medications: Some medications can affect balance as a side effect.
• Infections: Ear infections can lead to temporary balance problems.
• Head injuries: Trauma to the head can disrupt the inner ear or brain functions related to balance.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of balance disorders include:

• Dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation)
• Feeling of floating or feeling as if one is going to fall
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or disorientation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in heart rate or blood pressure
• Fear, anxiety, or panic

Diagnosis

Diagnosing balance disorders involves a thorough medical history review and physical examination, including neurological tests. Additional tests may include:

• Hearing tests
• Balance tests, such as the posturography test
• Imaging tests, like MRI or CT scans, to look at the inner ear and brain
• Blood tests to check for infections, inflammation, or other conditions that could affect balance

Treatment

Treatment for balance disorders depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Medications to treat the symptoms or underlying conditions
• Physical therapy or vestibular rehabilitation to improve balance
• Surgery, in cases where there is a structural problem in the inner ear
• Lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications in the case of Meniere's disease

Prevention

While not all balance disorders can be prevented, some measures can reduce the risk or severity of symptoms:

• Avoiding rapid changes in position
• Using caution on uneven surfaces
• Reducing or eliminating use of substances that can affect balance, such as alcohol and certain medications
• Regular exercise to improve strength, flexibility, and balance

See Also

• Ear anatomy
• Neurology
• Physical therapy