What Can Cause Inner Ear Problems?
Balance disorders are often linked to inner ear problems, since this is where the tiny organs that are responsible for our sense of balance are located. Although balance disorders come in several different forms, they often cause similar symptoms and there are a few common causes that are responsible for most cases.
Spotting Inner Ear Problems
You might have a balance disorder linked to your inner ear if you are experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, feeling off balance or a spinning sensation that makes it feel as if you are moving even when you are staying still. The symptoms will often appear under specific circumstances. For example, you might notice them when you move your head or eyes quickly, or if you are in an environment where lots of people or objects are moving around you.
Causes of Inner Ear Problems
If you’re experiencing symptoms that seem to be related to your inner ears then it is a good idea to consult an ENT specialist. In most cases the problem will be one of the following:
- An infection in your inner ear, typically a viral infection known as vestibular neuritis
- Ménière’s disease, a balance disorder linked to high pressure inside the inner ear that may also cause tinnitus or hearing loss
- Injuries to the inner ear
- Inner ear symptoms linked to migraines
Once the issue has been identified, your ENT consultant will be able to suggest the best treatment approach to manage your symptoms. Some causes of inner ear problems are very easy to treat. In the case of mild viral infections, the problem may even clear up by itself. However, other issues may require more intense treatment and you may need some extra support to recover your sense of balance through vestibular rehabilitation exercises.
