In order to maintain balance your body must send constant feedback to your brain and your brain must continually tell your body how to move in order to stay balanced. When this cycle is working properly we feel stable but when something in this system is disrupted the result is instability, lightheadedness, motion sickness, vertigo or fainting. Complicating this is the fact that as people age the fear of falling can become an ever present, even debilitating, state of mind – especially for those struggling with balance.
While numerous factors could impact balance like blood pressure, vision issues, head trauma or muscle weakness the problem frequently originates with the inner ear. The inner ear contains some amazing anatomy that senses directions of motion; however, the inner ear is extremely sensitive and delicate and so if it experiences issues like a decrease in blood flow, change in fluid levels, or inflammation it can quickly lead to dizziness. The list of reasons for inner ear problems is very long but includes things like nicotine, caffeine, salt, infections, allergies and a wide range of neurological disorders.
At Wagner ENT we have extensive experience examining those with dizziness, motion sickness, lightheadedness and a host of other balance related issues. If you have been suffering from any of these conditions for any extended period of time, please contact us immediately to setup a thorough examination.