Balance disorder

Our sense of balance enables us to coordinate our movements, stabilise our posture and move safely around our surroundings. Even the slightest disruption within this sensitive system can lead to dizziness, a feeling of unsteadiness or impaired balance. As the vestibular system works closely with the inner ear, the eyes and the central nervous system, there are numerous possible causes.

At our private ENT practice in Berlin, we diagnose and treat balance disorders using modern specialist ENT diagnostic techniques and individually tailored treatment plans.

What is a balance disorder?

A balance disorder is defined as an impairment of the ability to orientate oneself in space and to control posture and movement. Those affected often report feelings of dizziness, unsteadiness when walking or standing, and a sensation of instability. Typical accompanying symptoms may include nausea, visual disturbances or general malaise. Some patients feel as though the room is spinning, whilst others experience a sensation of swaying, falling or ‘floating’.

Balance disorders can significantly impair quality of life. Many sufferers avoid everyday activities such as driving, cycling or walking long distances outside their own home for fear of sudden onset of symptoms.

The balance organ in the inner ear

The vestibular system – also known as the vestibular organ – is located in the inner ear and consists of three semicircular canals and the otolithic organs. These structures detect movements and changes in the position of the head. The information received is transmitted via nerve pathways to the brain, where it is processed alongside visual impressions.

If conflicting signals arise between the inner ear, the eyes and the brain, this can trigger dizziness and balance disorders.

Possible causes of balance disorders

Temporary reactions to stimuli

Not every balance disorder is caused by a medical condition. Even healthy people may experience temporary symptoms, for example travel sickness or seasickness, rough seas or a fear of heights.

Disorders of the vestibular system

Balance disorders are often caused by a condition affecting the inner ear or the vestibular organ. These include Menière’s disease, labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis, vestibular neuropathy, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and vestibular schwannoma.

Other physical causes

Possible triggers also include metabolic disorders, hypoglycaemia, fluctuations in blood pressure, dehydration, neurological disorders, cerebral circulatory disorders or head injuries.

When should you seek medical advice?

Recurring or persistent balance disorders should always be investigated by a specialist. It is particularly important to seek medical advice if additional symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, changes in hearing or unsteadiness when walking occur.

Diagnosis of balance disorders

In our ENT practice, the diagnostic process begins with a detailed medical history. This is supplemented by a targeted ENT specialist examination of the hearing and balance systems.

Treatment of balance disorders

Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause of the symptoms. Depending on the diagnosis, medication, vestibular exercises, physiotherapy or specialised vertigo therapies may be appropriate.