Balance Issues

Meniere’s is thought to be caused from an imbalance of fluid in the inner ear, which interferes with balance and hearing. It can cause a spinning sensation (vertigo), unsteadiness when walking, hearing loss, tinnitus and a sensation of fullness in the ear. These symptoms can fluctuate and are unpredictable. The ‘attacks’ of vertigo, which can last 20 minutes to 24 hours are unpleasant and may eventually stop, however the hearing loss can get progressively worse.

If you have any of these symptoms, please see your GP, who may refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist and audiologist.

Treatments and management strategies include medication (anti-emetics, diuretics), a change in diet (low salt intake), vestibular physiotherapy and a hearing aid fitting.

BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo, which can last seconds but no longer than one minute and produces an uncomfortable, dizzying sensation that the environment is moving even though you are standing still.

This sensation can be triggered by your head position, such as looking up, down or rolling over in bed. BPPV is caused by tiny crystals in your vestibular system dislodging and moving into the wrong part (semi-circular canals). This tricks your brain into thinking you are moving when you’re not. Involuntary movement of your eyes (nystagmus) is also common with BPPV, however hearing loss is not.

A detailed history along with a positional test (Dix Hallpike) is best used to diagnose BPPV. The most effective way to treat BPPV is using the Epley manoeuver which can help by repositioning the tiny crystals to relieve you of the dizzying sensation. This is performed by a trained medical professional and can be repeated as needed.