Vestibular disease is a condition that affects the inner ear and can significantly impact one’s balance and spatial orientation. Though relatively common among the elderly, people of all ages can suffer from vestibular disorders. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic processes can help in managing this often-disruptive condition.
Prevalence of Vestibular Disease
Vestibular disease, while relatively common in certain populations, varies in prevalence based on age and underlying health conditions. Studies suggest that around 35% of adults aged 40 years and older in the United States have experienced some form of vestibular dysfunction. The odds of developing vestibular related balance dysfunction increases with age. Vertigo and dizziness are two common symptoms of vestibular disease; however, there are many causes and presentations of this condition. Although exact statistics on prevalence can be hard to find, the condition is recognized as a significant concern due to its impact on balance, coordination, and overall quality of life.
Causes of Vestibular Disease
The vestibular system includes the inner ear and parts of the brain responsible for processing information needed for balance and eye movements. Vestibular disorders can result when one of these areas is affected by disease or injury. Though the cause is sometimes unknown, vestibular disease can occur from inner ear infections, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, head injuries, and certain medications that can damage the inner ear. Additionally, neurological conditions such as vestibular neuritis or stroke can also lead to vestibular dysfunction.
These factors disrupt the normal functioning of the vestibular system and communication with the brain, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, imbalance, and disorientation. While there are many reasons for vestibular dysfunction, it is important to see a clinician competent in vestibular health to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
Symptoms and Why the Eyes Are Affected
One of the most perplexing aspects of vestibular disease is the effect it has on the eyes. When the problem is in the inner ear, the eyes are affected due to the close connection between the vestibular system and the ocular system. The inner ear contains the vestibular apparatus, which is crucial for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. It communicates directly with the brain through the vestibulocochlear nerve. This system is linked to the eye muscles via the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR), which stabilizes vision during head movements. When the inner ear malfunctions, it disrupts the signals sent to the brain, leading to involuntary eye movements, known as nystagmus, and problems with focusing. This connection explains why disturbances in the inner ear often result in visual symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, and difficulty maintaining a stable gaze.
Diagnosing Vestibular Disease
Diagnosing vestibular disease often involves a thorough examination of the eyes. When examining the eyes in patients with vestibular diseases, a doctor is primarily looking for signs of nystagmus, which are involuntary, rhythmic eye movements that can indicate a problem with the vestibular system. The assessment may also include a patient’s ability to maintain a steady gaze, track moving objects, and respond to positional changes. These eye movements provide critical information about the functioning and integrity of the vestibular system and its connections with the brain.
The presence, direction, and type of nystagmus can help pinpoint the location and cause of the vestibular dysfunction, whether it is related to the inner ear, the vestibular nerve, or central nervous system pathways. Often, infrared video goggles are used to assess for nystagmus to aid in a more accurate assessment and treatment of vestibular dysfunction. A comprehensive physical therapy evaluation includes assessing the function of the vestibular system, visual system, proprioception (muscles and joints) and how they are working together.
Take-away points:
Understanding vestibular disease, its causes, symptoms, and diagnostic processes is crucial for effectively managing this condition. Early detection and appropriate treatment can significantly improve quality of life.
We often see patients at Piedmont Eye Center with vestibular issues since ocular symptoms are often associated. Our community is fortunate to also have a Certified Vestibular Physical Therapist, Dr. Whitney Talley, who helped us with this article. Dr. Talley serves the Lynchburg area under her business name ‘The Dizzy PT’, and has helped numerous patients over the years.
If you are experiencing symptoms of vestibular dysfunction, consulting a healthcare professional like Dr. Talley is your next step.
Dizzy P.T. Contact info here:
Dr. Whitney Talley
Phone: (434) 515-1241
Email: thedizzy-pt@outlook.com
Website: www.the-dizzy-pt.com
Instagram: the.dizzy.pt
Facebook: The Dizzy PT