What are Vestibular Disorders?
The vestibular system includes parts of the inner ear and brain that help control balance and eye movements. If the system is damaged by disease, aging or injury, a vestibular disorder can result.
Symptoms
Physical
​
-
dizziness
-
vertigo
-
imbalance
-
nausea
-
hearing loss
-
tinnitus
-
visual disturbances
​
Psychological
​
-
confusion
-
disorientation
-
difficulty concentrating
-
cognitive fatigue
-
anxiety
-
depression
-
social isolation
Causes
-
Displaced "crystals" in the inner ear
-
Viral infection
-
Aging
-
Head injury
-
Migraines
-
Genetic or environmental factors
-
Lack of blood flow to the inner ear
-
Structural deformities
-
Medications
-
Benign tumors
Treatment
-
Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers (such as the Epley maneuver)
-
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)*
-
Vision therapy
-
Medications
-
Surgery
-
Diet & lifestyle changes
​
*VRT may include habituation exercises, gaze stabilization and balance retraining.