Get the Facts About Vestibular Disorders
While you may or may not have heard of a vestibular disorder, they exist and can significantly impact a person’s life. Considered to be a chronic disorder that affects a person’s balance, vestibular dysfunction can affect both the patient and their family emotionally, physically, and mentally. Balance in life is key, and this is true across the board. Whether it’s finding a balance between work and your personal life or just your ability to balance on your feet, balance is an essential part of a person’s life. To help preserve your hearing and balance, it is necessary to know the facts about vestibular disorders listed below.
Are you interested in learning more about vestibular disorders? If so, check out these fascinating facts about vestibular disorders.
Vestibular disorders are a common condition. So much so, it is estimated that over 35% of American adults over the age of 40 have experienced a vestibular disorder throughout their life.
Some of the most common vestibular disorders include Meniere’s disease, vertigo, vestibular neuritis, vestibular migraines, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), and labyrinthitis.
The symptoms of vestibular disorders range from vertigo, hearing loss, nausea, balance issues, tinnitus, dizziness, vision that “jumps,” memory problems, fatigue, anxiety, poor concentration, and depression.
The vestibular system includes the inner ear, eyes, and the parts of the brain that affect balance and the processing of sensory information.
While Vestibular disorders can occur due to unexplained causes, disease, aging, drugs, chemicals, autoimmune conditions, and traumatic brain injuries can also trigger vestibular disorders.
There is no cure for vestibular disorders, but while they can be life-altering, there is hope. Partial recovery is possible with therapy and vestibular exercises. In addition, vestibular disorders can be managed, and symptoms can improve with treatment and vestibular exercises.
Making lifestyle changes can help ease the symptoms of a vestibular disorder, such as reducing your intake of alcohol, salt, and caffeine. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet could also even help you regain some of the balance in your life.
While getting help is crucial, take the time to locate a doctor who is well-versed in vestibular disorders. Since it’s very common to be misdiagnosed, many don’t receive an accurate diagnosis at first, so take the time to find someone with extensive experience. Otherwise, you may have to see multiple physicians before you receive a correct diagnose.