A balance disorder is any condition that makes you feel dizzy or unsteady, even without actual movement. This is of special concern to older adults, putting them at greater risk of falling, which can lead to serious injury such as a hip fracture. Studies show between 12 and 67 percent of elderly individuals who fracture a hip die within a year. Figuring out what is causing dizziness is important, regardless of your age.
Because the inner ear is responsible for balance, most cases of dizziness originate here. The inner ear contains the labyrinth, a bony maze-like structure consisting of the cochlea, semicircular canals and vestibule. The latter two make up the vestibular system, which detects the position and movement of the head in relation to gravity and transmits this information to the brain. This process enables balance and reflexive eye movements. Abnormal vestibular signals cause the body to make incorrect adjustments, leading to dizziness or vertigo.
Dizziness causes you to feel faint or lightheaded. It may be accompanied by disequilibrium (loss of balance), nausea, confusion, disorientation and a floating sensation. This is the result of your brain sensing movement when none is occurring, which is often caused by a quick drop in blood pressure. There are many other conditions that may be responsible including ear infections, neurological disorders, anemia, inner ear abnormalities and more.
The key to treating dizziness and balance disorders is finding the underlying condition responsible for your symptoms. This requires a thorough examination by your doctor and may include diagnostic testing. Treatment may consist of medication, physical or occupational therapy, surgery, vestibular rehabilitation and lifestyle modification.
The hearing aids have made a significant difference in my life. I am able to engage in conversation with those around me, to be able to hear what is being said or asked, instead of staring at them, because I had no clue or idea what to say. I have attended supervisor classes, meetings, and daily dialogue at work with an...
Number one place to come if you have a hearing problem. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable with a wide selection of hearing aids. Great financing program when aides are needed. Appointments are on time. The staff does not rush you. They take their time to make sure your questions are answered. You leave knowing you are...
I was very pleased with the professionalism of the staff. The attention to my concerns put me at ease. We are very fortunate to have such a facility of this caliber in our area.
I am very satisfied with the service provided. The reasons are: 1. I got all tests done the same day I came for the MD visit. 2. I was able to get a pair of hearing devices for a week as a test-drive, that opened up my eyes to these kinds of devices and understand they can make a difference in my everyday life.
The staff is very professional and friendly. The waiting time is okay but it’s understandable since the doctors have several patients. Overall experience is great. I would recommend it to everyone.
Dr. Herrera is very clear and straight forward with her diagnosis and treatment options. Also, she put ear tubes in my ears and the results were amazing! She described the process exactly – there were no surprises. I would recommend her highly!
Our daughter had tubes put in and adenoids taken out, and our experience has been great. The staff is great with our daughter and has made the entire process a lot less stressful for us and her. We will definitely be coming back when need be!
Dr. Herrera is great and listens to all of our concerns. She treats both my grandson and son. We just love her and all of her staff is great and sweet.
