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Types of Balance Disorders

Approximately 40% of the population in the United States will experience dizziness or imbalance at some point in their life, and dizziness is the number one complaint and individuals aged 70 and older. Oftentimes, these issues are related to the balance system in the inner ear, or the vestibular system, according to Dr. Elissa Berry, a vestibular audiologist at Washington Regional Balance Disorders Clinic.

“The vestibular system is comprised of sensory organs in your inner ear that relate information to the brain regarding head and body orientation,” she explains. “Balance disorders can be divided into two main categories. The first includes symptoms of dizziness, vertigo or motion intolerance. Symptoms may be caused with quick head or body movements, lying down, rolling over and getting up out of bed, walking, or riding in the car.”

Berry says these symptoms can be acute attacks lasting for a just a few seconds at a time or they may last for several hours. The second category of balance disorders includes a persistent sense of imbalance or feeling unsteady.

“While there are many different things that cause dizziness and imbalance, 85% of cases originate from disturbances in the inner ear,” Berry says. “Any individual experiencing symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, blurred vision with head movements, lightheadedness, imbalance or sudden fall would benefit from an evaluation at the Balance Disorders Clinic.”

If you think you have a problem with dizziness or balance, Berry recommends contacting your primary care and asking for a referral to Washington Regional Balance Disorders Clinic. You can also complete a short quiz about your symptoms to see if you may benefit from an evaluation.