Understanding Balance Disorders and Vertigo
Learn about balance disorders and vertigo, including their causes, symptoms, diagnosis methods, and treatment options to help manage and improve stability.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. J T Hema Pratima MBBS
Last updated on 20th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Do you ever feel dizzy, unsteady, or like the room is spinning around you? If so, you might be experiencing balance disorders or vertigo. These conditions can be unsettling and affect your daily life, but understanding them can help you manage the symptoms better.
In this article, we’ll explore what balance disorders and vertigo are, their common causes, symptoms, and how you can take steps to improve your well-being.
What Are Balance Disorders and Vertigo?
Balance disorders are conditions that make you feel unsteady, dizzy, or as if you might fall. They happen when there’s a problem with your inner ear, brain, or sensory nerves, which help control balance.
Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness where you feel like you or your surroundings are spinning, even when you’re standing still. It’s often linked to issues in the inner ear or brain.
Consult a Top ENT Specialist for the best advice
Common Causes of Balance Disorders and Vertigo
Several factors can lead to balance problems or vertigo. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and disrupt balance signals.
- Often triggered by sudden head movements (e.g., rolling over in bed, looking up).
2. Meniere’s Disease
- A disorder of the inner ear causing vertigo, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and ear pressure.
- Linked to fluid buildup in the inner ear.
3. Labyrinthitis or Vestibular Neuritis
Viral or bacterial infections inflame the inner ear or vestibular nerve, leading to severe dizziness and imbalance.
4. Migraine-Associated Vertigo
Some people with migraines experience vertigo as part of their symptoms.
5. Medications
Certain drugs like blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and antibiotics can cause dizziness as a side effect.
6. Other Conditions
Low blood pressure, anemia, dehydration, or neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, stroke) can also contribute to balance issues.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you have a balance disorder or vertigo, you may experience:
- Spinning sensation (vertigo)
- Feeling lightheaded or faint
- Unsteadiness or difficulty walking
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Hearing changes (ringing in ears, hearing loss)
- Difficulty concentrating
If these symptoms are severe or persistent, it’s important to consult a doctor to rule out serious conditions.
How Are Balance Disorders Diagnosed?
Doctors may perform:
- Physical examination (checking ear, eye movements, and coordination).
- Hearing tests (to detect inner ear problems).
- Imaging tests (MRI or CT scans if a brain issue is suspected).
- Balance tests (like the Dix-Hallpike maneuver for BPPV).
Tips to Manage Balance Disorders and Vertigo
While treatment depends on the underlying cause, here are some helpful lifestyle and home remedies:
1. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can worsen dizziness. Drink enough water throughout the day.
2. Move Slowly
Avoid sudden head movements. Rise slowly from sitting or lying down.
3. Balance Exercises
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) helps retrain the brain to adjust to balance problems.
- Simple exercises like head turns, eye movements, and walking heel-to-toe can improve stability.
4. Dietary Adjustments
- Reduce salt, caffeine, and alcohol, which can trigger vertigo in some people.
- Eat small, frequent meals to prevent low blood sugar-related dizziness.
5. Fall Prevention
- Use handrails, non-slip mats, and good lighting at home.
- Avoid walking in the dark or on uneven surfaces.
6. Manage Stress
Anxiety can worsen dizziness. Try deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if you experience:
- Sudden, severe dizziness with headache or chest pain
- Difficulty speaking, weakness, or numbness (signs of stroke)
- Frequent falls or inability to walk
- Hearing loss or persistent ringing in the ears
Final Thoughts
Balance disorders and vertigo can be frustrating, but with the right diagnosis and care, they can often be managed effectively. Simple lifestyle changes, exercises, and medical treatments can help you regain stability and confidence.
Consult a Top ENT Specialist for the best advice
Consult a Top ENT Specialist for the best advice
Dr. Riya Das
Ent Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MS ENT(oto rhino laryngology)
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr Vaishnavi Shetty
Ent Specialist
5 Years • M. B. B. S , M.S.Otorhinolaryngology
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Spandita Ghosh
Ent Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MS
Kolkata
Health Connect, Kolkata
Dr. Mayur Nair
Ent Specialist
11 Years • MBBS, MS - ENT
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Athira Raj
Ent Specialist
6 Years • MBBS , MS ENT
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Consult a Top ENT Specialist for the best advice
Dr. Riya Das
Ent Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MS ENT(oto rhino laryngology)
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr Vaishnavi Shetty
Ent Specialist
5 Years • M. B. B. S , M.S.Otorhinolaryngology
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Spandita Ghosh
Ent Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MS
Kolkata
Health Connect, Kolkata
Dr. Mayur Nair
Ent Specialist
11 Years • MBBS, MS - ENT
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Athira Raj
Ent Specialist
6 Years • MBBS , MS ENT
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
