Could your dizziness and balance problems be caused by a vestibular disorder? Your McKinney, TX, otolaryngologist, Dr. Andrew Senchak of Texas Ear and Vestibular Institute, can determine the cause of your symptoms and offer helpful treatments.
Vestibular disorder symptoms
Dizziness or nausea isn't uncommon, particularly if you've been feeling a little under the weather. If the symptoms happen often, they could be related to a vestibular disorder. The vestibular system is located in your inner ear and is essential for good balance. If the system isn't working properly, you may experience:
- Dizziness
- A spinning sensation called vertigo
- Trouble keeping your balance
- Coordination problems
- Ear pain or fullness in the ears
- Nausea
- Concentration or memory problems
- Disorientation
- Ringing in the ears
- Poor depth perception
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision
- Trouble tracking objects with your eyes
- Focusing problems
- Headaches
- Motion sickness
A vestibular disorder could be caused by:
- An ear infection
- Head or neck injury
- Medication side effects
- Allergies, colds, and viral infections
- Aging
- Growth in the ear or on a nerve
- Meniere's disease
- Migraines
- Poor circulation in the ear
How are vestibular disorders treated?
During your visit to the McKinney otolaryngology office, your doctor will review your medications and medical history to determine if an underlying condition could be the cause of your problem. He may also recommend a few tests that will help him make a diagnosis.
If you are diagnosed with a vestibular disorder, your treatment options may include:
- Medication: Antibiotics to treat ear infections and medications for other underlying conditions may ease your symptoms.
- Counseling: Counseling can be helpful if you're struggling to deal with the effects of the vestibular disorder on your life.
- Canalith Repositioning Therapy: Your doctor manipulates your head to reposition crystals inside your ear during this therapy. Vestibular disorder symptoms can occur if the crystals move out of their normal positions.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy: You'll learn exercises that will reduce dizziness, improve balance and enhance the functioning of your vestibular system. Individualized therapy addresses your particular symptoms and challenges.
Do you have any of the symptoms of a vestibular disorder? Call your otolaryngologist in McKinney, TX, Dr. Andrew Senchak of Texas Ear and Vestibular Institute at (469) 678-2211 to schedule your appointment.