Why Do Balance Disorders Accompany Hearing Loss?

Balance disorders are common in people with hearing loss. In fact, research has shown that there is a strong link between balance problems and hearing loss. It can happen at any age so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, however, it is most prominent in those over the age of 65.

How Does Balance Work?

Before we dive into the connection between balance disorders and hearing loss, it’s important to understand how balance works. Balance is controlled by three main systems in your body:

• The visual system: This is the system that helps you keep your balance when you close your eyes or walk in the dark.
• The vestibular system: This is the system that helps you keep your balance when you move your head or body. It’s made up of tiny hairs in your inner ear that detect movement and send signals to your brain about what’s happening.
• The somatosensory system: This is the system that uses information from your joints, muscles and skin to help you keep your balance.

All three of these systems work together to help you maintain your balance. But if one of these systems isn’t working properly, it can lead to balance problems.

The Connection Between Balance Disorders and Hearing Loss

There are several reasons why balance disorders and hearing loss often go hand-in-hand. Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons:

• Hearing loss can make it challenging to judge distance and depth. This can make it hard to walk, especially in unfamiliar or dark environments.
• Hearing loss can make it challenging to hear environmental cues like traffic noise or footsteps. This can make it hard to stay safe when walking outdoors.
• Hearing loss can make it hard to communicate with others. This can lead to feelings of isolation and depression, which can in turn lead to a decrease in physical activity. And a sedentary lifestyle is one of the leading risk factors for falls.
• Hearing loss can make it challenging to hear your own footsteps. This can make it hard to know where you are in space, which can lead to balance problems.
• Hearing loss can cause damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. These hair cells are important for maintaining balance. When they’re damaged, it can lead to balance disorders.
• Finally, hearing loss can lead to a decline in cognitive function. This can make it difficult to process information and make decisions. And this can make it hard to maintain your balance.

If you have hearing loss, it’s important to be aware of the risk of balance disorders. If you experience any balance problems, be sure to talk to your medical professional. They can help you manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of falls.

Better Hearing of Madison County offers a wide range of services, including hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, repairs and maintenance.

Treating Balance Disorders

If you have a balance disorder, there are several treatment options available. Some common treatments include:

• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you improve your balance and prevent falls. They may also teach you exercises to improve your strength and flexibility.
• Vestibular rehabilitation: This is a type of therapy that helps improve the function of the vestibular system. It can help reduce dizziness and vertigo and improve balance.
• Balance training: This is a type of exercise that helps improve your balance. Balance training exercises can be done at home or in a physical therapy setting.
• Medication: There are several types of medication that can be used to treat balance disorders. These include vestibular suppressants, anti-nausea medication and anticholinergics.

If you have a balance disorder and hearing loss, it’s important to get treatment for both conditions. Treating one condition can often help improve the other. For example, if you treat your hearing loss, it may help improve your balance. And if you treat your balance disorder, it may help improve your hearing.

If you think you may have a balance disorder, the first step is to talk to your medical professional. They can help you diagnose the condition and develop a treatment plan.

Better Hearing of Madison County offers comprehensive hearing evaluations to assess your hearing health. If you think you may have a balance disorder or hearing loss, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’ll work with you to find the best treatment options for your individual needs. Call us at (315) 693-3637.