What Are Balance Disorders?

Balance disorders are a group of conditions that affect an individual's ability to maintain their equilibrium, resulting in balance problems and difficulties with coordination. The primary symptoms include dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness. These symptoms can arise from problems in the inner ear, brain, or other areas of the body responsible for preserving equilibrium. You may also hear your doctor refer to this condition as an ear balance problem or balance condition.

Signs & Symptoms

The symptoms of balance disorders can vary, and they often lead to difficulties in daily activities. Two major symptoms you might experience are dizziness and balance issues.

Some other common signs and symptoms include:

• Dizziness – A feeling of lightheadedness or wooziness that may cause disorientation or fainting.
• Vertigo – A sensation of spinning or movement when you are standing still, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. You might feel like you are falling, tipping over, or floating.
• Unsteadiness – Difficulty maintaining balance when standing or walking, which may lead to falls.
• Difficulty focusing – Trouble concentrating or following moving objects with the eyes, which can contribute to balance problems. You might also feel mild confusion and blurred vision.
• Hearing loss – Some balance disorders are associated with hearing issues, such as a decline in the ability to hear or ringing in the ears.
• Nystagmus – Involuntary, rapid eye movements that can be a result of dizziness and balance issues.

Causes

Balance disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including issues with the inner ear, brain, or other components of the balance system.

The causes of balance disorders can include:

• Inner ear disorders – Issues with ear balance, including conditions like Meniere's disease, can result in balance issues.
• Infections – Viral or bacterial infections that affect the inner ear can lead to temporary or permanent balance disorders.
• Head injuries – Trauma to the head can result in damage to the balance system, causing dizziness and balance issues.
• Neurological conditions – Neurological conditions – Conditions impacting the central nervous system, like multiple sclerosis or cerebrovascular accidents, may lead to balance problems.
• Medications – Certain medications, including some antibiotics, anti-seizure drugs, and blood pressure medications, can cause balance disorders as a side effect.
• Postural Hypotension – A decrease in blood pressure that occurs when transitioning from a seated or lying position to standing up.

Risk Factors

There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing a balance disorder.

Balance disorder risk factors:

• Age – Older adults are more susceptible to balance disorders due to age-related changes in the inner ear and a decline in overall physical fitness.
• Family history – A genetic predisposition to certain ear balance problems, such as Meniere's disease, can increase the risk of developing a balance disorder.
• Previous head injuries – A history of head trauma can increase the likelihood of balance issues.
• Medical conditions – Existing conditions, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, can contribute to balance disorders.
• Medication – Taking certain medication that affects your blood pressure or vision can put you more at risk for balance issues.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a balance disorder typically involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Your doctor might perform the following tests:

• Physical examination – A comprehensive assessment of your general health, including an evaluation of your balance and coordination.
• Hearing tests – Tests to determine if hearing loss is contributing to your balance condition.
• Vestibular tests – Your doctor may evaluate the function of the inner ear and pinpoint the cause of ear balance issues through assessments like the Dix-Hallpike maneuver or caloric testing.
• Imaging studies – MRI or CT scans to visualize the brain and inner ear structures and identify any abnormalities. Imaging scans usually involve magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and Computed Technology (CT) scans.
• Videonystagmography (VNG) – This test evaluates inner ear and eye function by monitoring your eye movements, using goggles, as you perform tasks like tracking targets and moving your head and body.

Treatment

Your treatment options for balance disorders vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Your general health is also a determining factor.

Balance disorder treatments:

• Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) – A therapeutic approach that enhances equilibrium and alleviates dizziness through exercises that target the vestibular system.
• Medications – Various medications, such as anti-vertigo drugs, anti-nausea medications, or diuretics, may be prescribed to manage symptoms or treat underlying causes of the balance disorder.

• Ear balance treatment – In some cases, surgical interventions, or specialized procedures, such as canalith repositioning for BPPV, may be necessary to treat ear balance problems.
• Lifestyle modifications – Making changes to your daily habits, such as reducing stress, staying well-hydrated, and maintaining a healthy diet, can help manage symptoms and improve overall balance.
• Assistive devices – Using walking aids, such as a cane or walker, may be recommended to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.

Prevention

While not all balance disorders can be prevented, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk and maintain overall balance health.

Prevention tips include:

• Regular exercise – Engaging in physical activities that improve balance, strength, and flexibility, such as yoga, tai chi, or swimming, can help reduce the risk of developing balance problems.
• Healthy diet – Consuming a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals that support inner ear function, can contribute to better balance health.
• Avoiding excessive noise exposure – Protecting your ears from loud noises can help prevent hearing loss and potential balance issues.
• Managing chronic conditions – Effectively controlling pre-existing health issues, including diabetes or heart disease, can aid in lowering the likelihood of developing balance disorders.
• Safe home environment – Making your living space safer by removing tripping hazards, improving lighting, and installing handrails can help prevent falls related to balance issues.
• Avoid walking in the dark – Navigating in well-lit environments can help reduce the risk of falls related to dizziness.
• Wear appropriate footwear – Wear low-heeled or walking shoes when outdoors to maintain better stability.
• Utilize assistive devices – If needed, use a cane or walker for added support and balance.

Complications

Untreated or poorly managed balance disorders can lead to several complications, including an increased risk of falls, injuries, and reduced quality of life. Falls can result in fractures, head injuries, or other serious injuries that may require hospitalization or long-term care. Additionally, balance problems can cause anxiety, depression, or social isolation due to the impact on daily activities and personal relationships. It is essential to seek professional help for dizziness and balance issues to minimize the risk of complications and improve overall well-being.