Balance disorders are among the most common health problems faced in this country. Many of them actually go undiagnosed because symptoms come on quickly and seem to disappear almost as quickly. But in some cases, one’s balance system has been damaged or is in need of some rehabilitation. In all cases, comprehensive balance testing should be undertaken to rule out serious injury and serious medical issues, and to determine the best course of action and therapy.
The Complexity of the Balance System
Most people take their balance systems for granted on a daily basis. They walk, run, move and play without ever really thinking about the interaction of complex internal signals and mechanisms that allow them to keep their balance and walk in a straight line. For some people, a balance disorder can take over their lives and cause untold problems. Balance may be affected by the following mechanisms.
Since the sense of balance and equilibrium is such a complex network of interlocking processes, any disruption can cause problems. While influenza and head colds may cause one to feel dizzy, illnesses like labyrinthitis, Meniere’s disease, and vestibular neuritis can be acute and very disruptive. People may not only feel dizziness, but also severe vertigo, nystagmus, nausea and tinnitus during the acute phase.
For some people, the damage can be much longer lasting, and may even include depression, anxiety, chronic balance problems, and trouble looking at TV and computer screens. In fact, the balance system is so complex and intertwined with brain functions that health professionals have yet to understand some of the complex symptoms associated with these illnesses. In cases like this, it is always recommended to undergo comprehensive balance testing.
Illnesses like brain tumor and acoustic neuroma must be ruled out whenever someone experiences a disruption to their sense of balance. While rare, these illnesses do occur in a small section of the population every year, and balance testing must be carried out, along with scans to rule them out.
As people age, many of the things they used to take for granted begin to fail or become impaired. This includes portions of the balance system, but may also include other parts of the body like the hips, feet and nerves. Balance testing in Orlando can be located and arranged quickly in cases like this.
General health check-ups are always recommended, particularly as you age. When a normal part of your life is severely affected, such as your balance, then you must seek the services of health professionals for testing.
