While feeling dizzy on occasion is usually nothing to worry about, chronically feeling off balance or like the room is spinning may indicate a balance disorder. At Michigan Neurology Associates & PC, the skilled neurology team offers on-site diagnostics for balance disorders at each of their locations serving the Metro Detroit area in Clinton Township, St. Clair Shores, and Utica, Michigan. You can expect a custom treatment plan that focuses on your overall health to restore balance and alleviate related symptoms. Schedule a consultation online or by phone today for an accurate diagnosis of a balance disorder.
Your brain works together with gravity and other parts of your body to keep you upright. Systems in addition to your brain that help you stay balanced include your:
Within your ear is the vestibular system, a maze of soft tissues and bones that send signals to your brain when you tilt your head. Inside the maze is a fluid that moves when you move, telling your brain which direction your head is in.
When any part of this system becomes dysfunctional, it can impact your sense of balance, causing a balance disorder.
A balance disorder is a condition that causes you to feel unsteady on your feet or frequently dizzy. You may feel dizziness whether you’re standing, sitting, or lying still.
Additionally, you may often feel like the room is spinning or experience sensations like your body is floating. These side effects of a balance disorder may increase your risk for injuries and other health complications due to falls, fainting episodes, or feeling disoriented in your environment.
Physical side effects of a balance disorder may include:
Frequent dizziness can also cause mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or panic.
There are a number of underlying medical issues that can cause a balance disorder, although some people may develop balance issues for no apparent reason.
Most commonly, balance disorders develop due to:
While anyone is susceptible to developing a balance disorder, your risk increases as you get older.
Treatment for a balance disorder depends on the root cause of your symptoms. If you have an inner ear infection that makes you feel dizzy, a course of antibiotics can clear the infection and stabilize your balance.
If your balance issue stems from vertigo, a condition that results when small calcium carbonate crystals fall into the fluids of your inner ear canal, your Michigan Neurology Associates & PC physician can use manual manipulations of your head to reposition the crystals.
Medications for motion sickness and nausea are also available to reduce the side effects a balance disorder can cause.
If persistent dizziness is interfering with your life, schedule a consultation at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC online or by phone today to learn more about available treatments.
