When to See an Audiologist for Balance Issues

If you encounter balance issues like dizziness or unsteadiness, it could be temporary; on the other hand, it could indicate a deeper underlying issue. Either way, it should not be ignored, especially if it has happened more than once. Instead, contact an audiologist immediately to book an appointment and resolve the issue quickly and professionally.

Balance Issues

Most people have some dizziness from time to time; this can be related to blood-sugar levels, orientation or blood pressure from standing up too quickly. However, if the balance issues turn into a pattern, it might be an indication of something more serious that needs some attention.

A balance disorder can make you feel lightheaded, like you are floating or makes you stagger when you try to walk. It can also cause blurred vision and disorientation. Consult a medical professional about your balance issues but don’t be surprised if they send you to an audiologist.

Causes of Balance Issues

Most people think balance issues are located in the head; this is only partly true. In fact, the majority of balance issues originate in the inner ear because balance and hearing are closely connected. If you’re unsure about your balance issues, consider talking to an audiologist.

Balance issues can be caused by medications, infections, injuries and high blood pressure. The brain relies on the eyes, ears, muscles and sense organs for orientation, but one of the main faculties is the vestibular system located in the inner ear.

Treatment of Balance Issues

Balance issues can be treated by a medical professional or an audiologist; sometimes, a person will be referred to an audiologist for more targeted treatment. The first thing an audiologist will do is determine the cause through a process of elimination using testing.

Someone might be asked to change a lifestyle habit or even a medication they are using. If you are referred to an audiologist, they will test your hearing and the vestibular system. An audiologist might resolve the hearing issue with a hearing device or some lifestyle changes.

Visiting an Audiologist

An audiologist might not be the first person you contact when you have balance issues but consider that most of the balance information for the brain passes through the vestibular system, which is one of the main parts of the auditory system.

Still, it’s probably better to contact a general practitioner first to ensure you are getting the most appropriate specialist for your treatment; most balance issues are related to the hearing system, but not all of them. If you have an audiologist, there’s no harm in contacting them as well.

Balance issues can be serious and should not be ignored or underestimated. If you notice a pattern in your balance, you need to seek advice from an audiologist as soon as possible. An audiologist is the best person to talk to about balance as they understand the hearing system.