If you have suffered from vertigo or balance issues, you have probably head that they can be caused by inner ear fluid imbalance.

Vertigo, dizziness and balance issues can be debilitating and so difficult to live with, which is why it is important to understand how they work to try to address the causes and prevent them before they affect your life.

What does dizziness have to do with my ears?

Dizziness, feelings of imbalance and vertigo are fairly common, happening to approximately 40% of adults at least once. Symptoms may include feeling like the room is spinning, being unable to walk because of imbalance, feelings of vertigo, and dizziness. Feeling confused, disoriented, lightheaded or faint can also accompany these episodes, and in rare cases blurred vision can be experienced.

The first thing you should do if you have several occurrences of dizziness or imbalance is to be checked by your primary care physician. You may be referred to an ENT or audiologist to determine the cause of the issue.

Dizziness, vertigo and feelings of imbalance can be triggered by many different factors, including pharmaceuticals, issues with the inner ear, a problem with the brain, or an injury.

Some common testing methods include:

• • Electronystagmography (ENT): evaluations that track eye movements, and can include assessments that gauge interaction between the eyes and inner ears.
  • CT scans or an MRI
  • Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential (VEMP) observation of the vestibular nerve and sensory cells of the inner ear to determine function.
  • Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) screens motor control and balance function in fluctuating conditions.

Audiologists often do an evaluations to determine any accompanying hearing issues.

Science and Research for Solutions

One recent advancement has been using MRI magnet technology to diagnose and potentially even remedy dizziness and balance problems caused by inner ear fluid imbalance.

Johns Hopkins Researchers discovered something in 2011: MRI magnetic fields can influence the fluid in the inner ear. Since balance disorders like Vertigo are often caused by inner ear fluid buildup, and this can result in feelings of imbalance, dizziness, and eye spasms, this discovery could potentially help to address all of these issues.

The “pulling force” of the MRI magnet may potentially be able to effectively identify and treat inner ear issues by adjusting the pressure and fluids in the inner ear.

Sufferers of vertigo, imbalance and dizziness currently undergo uncomfortable and invasive testing procedures, so this news may be a welcome development for future diagnosis and care.

If you have been suffering from dizzy spells or feelings of imbalance, be sure to get an evaluation with your audiologist or primary physician to evaluate the cause of the issue.

The first step to halting hearing loss and preventing further damage is to recognize your situation. Come in today for a hearing screening and formulate a strategy to train your brain to listen actively and effectively.

Diablo Hearing Services   2301 Camino Ramon, STE 106   San Ramon (925) 394-4646