Can an Audiologist Treat Balance Disorders?

One frustrating part of having a hearing problem can be a balance disorder. A balance disorder is where someone feels unsteady and essentially, dizzy. Because the labyrinth organ inside our inner ear is such an important aspect of our balance system, we need to find if this is the source of balance problems. When suffering from hearing problems an audiologist can treat the symptoms by using sound therapy or providing hearing aids, but can an audiologist treat balance disorders?

The types of balance disorder

The more common ones diagnosed include labyrinthitis, which is an infection or inflammation of the inner ear. There is also Meniere’s disease, which can cause episodes of vertigo and tinnitus. Another common balance disorder is perilymph fistula and vestibular neuronitis, which can be caused by viral infection.

Diagnosing a balance disorder

Due to the complex nature of diagnosing a balance disorder, as well as the various medical conditions, such as blood pressure changes and ear infections, the medications dispensed could cause a balance disorder. In some cases, an otolaryngologist may offer that opinion to evaluate whether there is a balance problem or not, as it is their specialty in dealing with diseases and disorders of the nose, head, neck, throat and ear. After the diagnostic tests are carried out, which can vary depending on the symptoms and the health of the patient, a diagnosis may be settled upon, and the appropriate treatment implemented.

The treatment of a balance disorder

When it comes to the treatment of a balance disorder, there are numerous options. Ultimately, it depends on the cause. One option includes treatment that may be for an underlying disorder that contributes to the balance problem, such as multiple sclerosis, a stroke or an ear infection. The treatment will depend on the symptoms, as well as the medical history and the health of the individual. Another approach to treating includes vestibular rehabilitation, which is better known as balance retraining exercises. This sort of therapy is a more organic approach to dealing with the disorder. Exercises including moving the head and body in certain ways that are developed for the individual patient are administered by specific professionals who have an understanding of the vestibular system. Another treatment can be sought through diet. For those who have been diagnosed with Meniere’s disease, changing diet has shown to be helpful. By reducing caffeine intake, as well as alcohol and nicotine, and even a reduction in sodium may prove to be helpful in treating the symptoms. With Meniere’s disease, there are some antibiotics that can be dispensed to treat the symptoms, such as gentamicin and streptomycin. There is also talking therapy and physical rehabilitation that can be beneficial for those that have the anxiety associated with balance disorders. As you can see, there are numerous diagnoses to be made with balance disorders, and if you suspect yourself of having a balance disorder, it’s important to monitor the symptoms you suspect has been linked to the issue, as well as providing a list of medication currently being used so a proper diagnosis can be made.