Chronic daily dizziness is a complicated issue because it may be attributed to various accompanying conditions including head injury, ear infections, migraines, and anxiety disorders. Research shows: 60% of chronic dizziness cases are linked to anxiety disorders; 38% are linked to central nervous system disorders such as a history of migraines or brain injury; and 2% are linked to abnormal heart rhythms. Since these conditions can all accompany other conditions, identifying the true cause can be challenging.

To complicate the issue, the initial cause may not be what actually contributes to its persistence. For example, initial dizziness may be caused by an ear infection or a one-time panic attack. Its persistence then may be unrelated to the initial cause. So doctors must be aware that a medical condition may have caused the current psychiatric condition.

Treating chronic daily dizziness involves identifying and treating the underlying cause. Thorough medical and audiological assessments help to identify the root cause of symptoms. Treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis, according to the underlying cause. Our team approach at Denver Ear Associates skillfully assesses and treats chronic daily dizziness.

Balance Testing

A balance disorder is a disturbance that causes an individual to feel unsteady, giddy, woozy, or have a sensation of movement, spinning, or floating. An organ in our inner ear, the labyrinth, is an important part of our vestibular (balance) system. The labyrinth interacts with other systems in the body, such as the visual (eyes) and skeletal (bones and joints) systems, to maintain the body’s position. These systems, along with the brain and the nervous system, can be the source of balance problems.

Balance disorder symptoms include:

  • A sensation of dizziness or vertigo (spinning)
  • Falling or a feeling of falling
  • Lightheadedness or feeling woozy
  • Visual blurring
  • Disorientation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Faintness
  • Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
  • Fear, anxiety, or panic

The symptoms may appear and disappear over short time periods or may last for a longer period of time.

Balance Disorder Causes

Balance disorders can be due to problems in any of four areas:

  • Peripheral vestibular disorder – a disturbance in the labyrinth
  • Central vestibular disorder – a problem in the brain or its connecting nerves
  • Systemic disorder – a problem of the body other than the head and brain
  • Vascular disorder or blood flow problems

What are some types of balance disorders?

Some of the more common balance disorders are:

Balance Disorder Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a balance disorder is complicated because there are many kinds of balance disorders and because other medical conditions–including ear infections, blood pressure changes, and some vision problems–and some medications may contribute to a balance disorder. A person experiencing dizziness should see our specialists for an evaluation.

Balance Disorder Treatment

Treatment for balance disorders is determined by the underlying cause. For a disease or disorder that may be contributing to the balance problem, such as ear infection, stroke, or multiple sclerosis, individual treatment will vary and will be based upon symptoms, medical history, general health, examination by a physician and medical test results.

Other treatments include:

  • Balance retraining exercises (vestibular rehabilitation) which promote compensation for the disorder.
  • Dietary changes may be indicated for conditions such as Meniere’s Disease.
  • Talk therapy and/or physical rehabilitation may be recommended for people with anxiety.

Help your Doctor Make a Diagnosis

Take the following steps to our specialists determine a diagnosis and treatment plan.

  • Bring a written list of symptoms.
  • Bring a list of all medications currently being used for balance disorders.
  • Be specific when you describe the nature of your symptoms to your doctor. For example, describe how, when and where you experience dizziness.

In Need of Treatment? We Look Forward to Helping You!

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