How Balance Is Related to Our Hearing
Balance disorders are a common health condition in the United States. They are typically characterized by feelings of dizziness, unsteadiness, and a spinning sensation. Balance disorders can be caused by chronic illness, viruses, or head trauma. If you suspect you have a balance disorder, we can help. Learn more about balance disorders and how balance is connected to your hearing.
How Do I Know If I Have a Balance Disorder?
Balance disorders can have many symptoms, including:
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Vertigo
- Nausea
- Difficulty walking
- Hearing loss
- Earache
- Tinnitus
- Blurred vision
- Confusion or disorientation
Although these symptoms may not be the direct result of a balance disorder, they can be connected. If you've noticed any of these symptoms it's important to contact us immediately. Our hearing specialist can test your balance and diagnose any disorders or signs of vertigo.
How Is Balance Connected to Hearing?
Did you know your balance is connected to your hearing? Your inner ear contains a network of structures called the labyrinth, which is responsible for your sense of balance and hearing. The different parts of the labyrinth - the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals - contain fluid and fine hairs that transmit nerve impulses to the brain, allowing us to experience sound and maintain equilibrium.
If you have hearing loss, that alone cannot cause an issue with your balance. But since both occur in the inner ear, they often appear together. Head injuries or infections that cause hearing loss can also damage the structures that are responsible for balance. Although you can experience both simultaneously, hearing loss and balance problems don't always occur together. You can have hearing loss without ever experiencing a problem with your balance and vice versa.
How Do I Manage Hearing Loss and Balance Problems?
If are experiencing balance problems and you have hearing loss, then contact our office. We can help you manage your hearing loss by examining your inner ear and diagnosing any issues with your hearing. We will also test your balance and determine what is causing your dizziness (whether it is connected to your hearing loss or not) and help you experience relief. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and start feeling your best again. Schedule an Appointment!
