Balance and Vestibular Services

Do you suffer from:

- Dizziness or vertigo?
- Balance problems?
- Unsteadiness with a tendency to fall?
- Nausea?
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)?
- Light headedness?
- Blurred Vision?
- Pressure or fullness in the ears?
- Tinnitus (ringing or roaring in the ears)?
- Hearing Loss?

These are all symptoms of vestibular disorders. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, you should consult your physician.

Dizziness is the second most common complaint heard by physicians. It’s estimated that as many as 40% of all adults experience dizziness severe enough to warrant reporting it to their doctor. Most causes of dizziness are detectable and treatable.

Dizziness can be a symptom of a variety health disorders. There are many possible causes for dizziness. The most common causes are vestibular disorders- problems in the inner ear and in particular the vestibular system that controls our sense of balance.

Other underlying causes may include a reaction to medication, bacterial or viral infections, head injury or orthopedic conditions.  Causes may also be found in the central nervous system (the brainstem or brain) resulting from disease or injury. Dizziness may also be a sign of a cardiovascular problem like high blood pressure or anemia.

Spokane Ear, Nose and Throat can provide a comprehensive evaluation of dizziness, vertigo and imbalance. Electrophysiological tests such as electronystagmography (ENG) are used to measure your eye movements related to dizziness. This provides information about the inner ear, eye movements, and the nervous system. Other tests may also be completed depending on your symptoms. Many people with inner ear problems also experience hearing loss, your hearing may also be evaluated. 

Computerized dynamic posturography may also be used to help assess dizziness and imbalance. This test looks at how your balance system works in more “real life” situations. 

Treatment for dizziness and balance problems is prescribed by your physician following diagnosis of specific condition or disease. Medical or surgical treatment is required for some diagnosis, however physical therapy can help to improve other conditions.

Audiological Services offered for dizziness/ balance problems:

• Electronystagmography (ENG)

• Evoked potentials (ABR, EcochG)

• Computerized Dynamic Posturography

• Complete hearing evaluations