When the World is Spinning: The Problems of Dizziness

     Feelings of dizziness or unsteadiness are a common health complaint.  About 42% of patients will report dizziness to their doctor or audiologist at least once in their lifetime.  The frequency of balance disorders increases with age.  Balance disorders are one of the most common reasons for seeking medical help for people over 70 years of age.
     Dizziness may be related to ear and hearing problems because the balance center-the vestibular system-is directly connected to the inner ear.  The vestibular system and the inner ear also share the same nerve leading to the brain.
     Two common but very different descriptions of a dizziness attack are that the room is spinning or there is a sense of unsteadiness.  These attacks may occur suddenly or when changeing position (such as getting out of bed).  The episode may only last a few minutes or may be long term.  Faintness or nausea may be present.  Headaches, muscular aches in the neck and back, and fatigue may also occur.

Types of dizziness.
     Vertigo refers to a problem of the vestibular system.  The person usually complains of feelings of spinning or turning, rather than a sense of unsteadiness.  Vertigo can be caused by viral infections, medications, head trauma, ear infections and, rarely, tumors.
     Dysequilibrium refers to more generalized problems of unsteadiness.  These complaints usually are not related to the inner ear, but to problems such as high blood pressure, hyperventilation, or poor blood circulation.
     Because there are so many causes, it can be difficult to identify the cause of a balance disorder.  The first step is a medical examination.  Specialized tests may include audiologic testing and vestibular testing such as electronystagmography (ENG).  Neurologic, X-ray and balance testing (posturography) may also be done.

Treatment.
     If a specific cause is found, treatment can be directed at the cause of the balance disorder.  In cases where the cause is not determined, medication or a change in diet may be recommended.
     A vestibular rehabilitation program may be recommended.  This is a series of exercises designed to teach the brain to compensate for the loss of balance funtion.

*Taken from our Hearing HealthCare News letter.