Number One Complaint
Dizziness or loss of balance is the second most common complaint heard in doctor’s offices, but it is the number one complaint reported by adults 70 years of age or older. The National Institute of Health statistics indicate that dizziness will occur in 70% of the nation’s population at sometime in their lives. Although very common, acute or chronic problems with equilibrium may indicate serious health risks, or limit a person’s everyday living.
Understanding Vertigo, Imbalance, and Motion Sickness
Equilibrium/ Vestibular Balance disorders fall into two categories. The first is dizziness, vertigo or motion intolerance that may occur in acute or sharp attacks lasting only seconds or sometimes for several hours. This condition may be caused or worsened by rapid head movements, turning to o quickly, walk or riding.
Second is a persistent sense of imbalance, unsteadiness or what some people refer to as a loss of surefootedness. Good news is that diagnosis and treatment options have become more effective over the past ten years. There is hope for many who once thought there might be no relief.
Dizziness
Dizziness is generally associated with sensations of falling, lightheadedness or complaints of feeling woozy. It is also the second most common complaint heard in doctors’ offices. Statistics reported by The National Institute of Health indicate that dizziness will occur in 90 million of the nation’s population at some time in their lives. Additionally, dizziness is the #1 complaint for individuals over age 70. Although very common, acute or chronic problems with equilibrium may limit a person’s everyday living.
Vertigo
Vertigo is the sensation that your surroundings are spinning or moving. Vertigo usually results from a problem with the nerves and the structures of the balance mechanism in your inner ear (vestibular system), which sense movement and changes in your head position. Sitting up or moving around may make it worse. Sometimes vertigo is severe enough to cause nausea, vomiting and imbalance.
Experiencing symptoms?
Ask your physician for a referral!
Complete Comprehensive Testing
Although VNG has historically been at the center of vestibular examination, the addition of vHIT, Rotary Chair, and VEMP offers a powerful synergistic and comprehensive test battery. Combined, these tests offer a more efficient and efficacious means of management for the chronic dizzy patient.
Ask your physician for a referral to LAA Center for Balance for vestibular testing that can help address a vestibular balance disorder.
Still need help?