Balance problems can disrupt daily activities, making it difficult to walk or move without feeling unsteady.
These problems often arise from issues in the inner ear or brain or from having low blood pressure.
Symptoms can include dizziness, a spinning sensation, or feeling light-headed.
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This article discusses potential causes, symptoms, and treatment of balance problems.
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How Does the Sense of Balance Work?
The ear plays a key role in hearing and balance.
Thevestibular systemin theinner earis crucial for maintaining equilibrium.
This system includes three semicircular canals and two otolith organs located beneath the canals.
Each semicircular canal is filled with fluid and ends in the ampulla, which contains sensory hair cells.
When the head moves, the fluid in these canals moves too, but a bit slower.
Neurological and Inner Ear Issues
Balance problems often manifest as dizziness or vertigo.
In addition, medications you take for pain management of your injuries could also lead to balance issues.
There are two main types: peripheral and central.
Trained physical therapists who specialize in evaluating balance issues can tailor a rehabilitation plan based on your symptoms.
If your symptoms persist, your healthcare provider can prescribe medications to relieve discomfort and improve your condition.
Parkinson’s diseaseis a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and motor control.
One of its hallmark symptoms is postural instability.
With Parkinson’s, individuals may experience difficulty maintaining their balance while standing or walking.
This instability can increase the risk of falls and impact daily activities.
Multiple sclerosisis an autoimmune condition that targets the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.
MS can cause damage to the nerves responsible for coordinating movement and balance.
Strokes may also lead to one-sided body weakness, making balance difficult.
Fatigue may also contribute to feelings of instability.
Migraine
Vestibular migraine is a specific jot down of migraine that involves symptoms beyond the typical headache.
In addition to head pain, people with vestibular migraines experience episodes of vertigo and dizziness.
This can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and difficulty focusing or concentrating.
People over the age of 75 tend to have higher rates of balance disorders than younger people.
You’ll sit in a chair that moves back and forth while wearing goggles that track your eye movements.
Additional tests may include:
How Are Balance Problems Treated?
This includes:
Medications
Medications can help manage balance problems brought on by specific conditions.
Medication usage and dosage will depend on the reason behind the balance issues.
Recognizing the symptoms and risk factors can help you seek appropriate treatment and manage your condition effectively.
Regular checkups and proactive lifestyle changes can also enhance balance and overall health.
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Spinal cord injury.
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National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Health.What is diabetes neuropathy?
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Harvard Health Publishing.Easy ways to improve your balance.
