Vestibular disorders are conditions that affect your sense of balance, often due to issues in the inner ear or the brain. These disorders can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness and difficulty with coordination. At Ear, Nose & Throat Associates, we provide personalized, compassionate care to help you manage these symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Common Vestibular Disorders We Treat
Vestibular Migraines
Vestibular migraines are a type of migraine that can cause dizziness, vertigo, imbalance and sensitivity to motion. Interestingly, these symptoms may occur with or without a headache, making diagnosis more complex. While the exact cause of vestibular migraines is not fully understood, they are believed to have a genetic component. Treatment often involves a combination of medication and lifestyle modifications.
BPPV
BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals, disrupting your sense of balance. This condition can cause brief but intense episodes of vertigo, especially with changes in head position. Other symptoms may include:
- Lightheadedness
- Blurred vision
- Nausea or vomiting
Fortunately, BPPV can often be treated effectively with simple repositioning maneuvers performed by a trained provider.
Ménière’s Disease
Ménière’s disease is caused by an abnormal buildup of fluid in the inner ear. It typically results in:
- Recurring episodes of vertigo (lasting 20 minutes to 12 hours)
- Fluctuating hearing loss
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Sensitivity to loud sounds
Vestibular Neuritis
Vestibular neuritis is an inner ear condition that results from inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which sends balance signals from the inner ear to the brain. It typically comes on suddenly and can cause:
- Severe vertigo
- Nausea or vomiting
- Unsteadiness or difficulty walking
- No associated hearing loss
Vestibular neuritis is often caused by a viral infection and can last for several days, with gradual improvement over time. While the initial symptoms can be intense, many people recover fully with appropriate care and time.
Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis is similar to vestibular neuritis but also affects the cochlea—the part of the inner ear involved in hearing. As a result, it causes both balance and hearing symptoms, such as:
- Vertigo
- Nausea or imbalance
- Tinnitus
- Temporary hearing loss in one ear
Like vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis is usually caused by a viral infection, though bacterial causes are possible. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting recovery, which often occurs over several weeks.
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)
SCDS is a rare vestibular disorder caused by a thinning or opening in the bone overlying one of the inner ear balance canals. This abnormal “window” can cause the inner ear to respond to sound or pressure in ways it shouldn’t.
Common symptoms include:
- Vertigo or imbalance triggered by loud sounds or pressure changes (such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting)
- Sensitivity to internal sounds like heartbeat, eye movement or your own voice (autophony)
- Hearing distortion or fullness in the ear
Diagnosis often requires a combination of hearing tests, vestibular testing, and high-resolution imaging. While SCDS is rare, it is treatable—and identifying it can bring significant relief to those affected.
Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)
An acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous, slow-growing tumor on the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. Though not always classified as a primary vestibular disorder, it can affect balance and hearing.
Symptoms may include:
- Gradual hearing loss in one ear
- Ringing (tinnitus) in one ear
- Imbalance, especially in low-light conditions
- Occasionally, facial numbness or pressure
Acoustic neuromas are typically diagnosed through hearing tests and imaging. If suspected, we can coordinate further evaluation and treatment with the appropriate specialists.
Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria and ruling out other causes of symptoms. While Ménière’s disease is a chronic condition, there are treatments that can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of episodes.
Treatment and Management
Because vestibular disorders vary widely in their causes and symptoms, treatment must be tailored to each individual. At Ear, Nose & Throat Associates, we take the time to understand your specific condition and how it’s affecting your daily life.
Your personalized care plan may include a combination of approaches, such as:
- Medical management
- Lifestyle recommendations
- Balance or vestibular therapy
- Coordination with other specialists, if needed
Our goal is to reduce the frequency and intensity of your symptoms, help you regain stability, and improve your quality of life. We’re here to support you at every step of the way with evidence-based, compassionate care. If you’re experiencing dizziness, vertigo or other balance-related symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Our experienced team is here to guide you toward answers and relief. Contact Ear, Nose & Throat Associates to schedule an evaluation and begin your path toward better balance and well-being.
Call Ear, Nose & Throat Associates at (260) 426-8117 for more information or to schedule an appointment.