Vertigo & Other Balance Disorder

Causes:

Inner Ear Dysfunction: Problems such as Meniere’s disease, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), or vestibular neuritis disrupt the balance system.
Neurological Conditions: Migraines, multiple sclerosis, or small strokes affecting the brain’s balance centers can cause dizziness.
Trauma or Degeneration: Head injuries or age-related changes in the vestibular system often contribute to balance issues.
Other Factors: Anxiety disorders, medication side effects, or cardiovascular problems may mimic or worsen balance disorders.

Diagnosis:

Vestibular Function Tests: Tests like videonystagmography (VNG) or electronystagmography (ENG) measure eye movements to assess inner ear function.
Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans rule out central causes like tumors or stroke.
Clinical History: A detailed history of dizziness episodes, triggers, and associated symptoms helps pinpoint the underlying cause.

Treatment:

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy: Customized exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness.
Medications: Drugs like meclizine, diazepam, or diuretics (for Meniere’s) help manage symptoms.
Lifestyle Modifications: Dietary changes (low salt for Meniere’s), stress management, and avoiding triggers.

Procedures: In severe cases, surgical interventions or repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for BPPV).