How Hearing Challenges Affect Your Balance

As our bodies age, we often face multiple health challenges that can affect our quality of life. One significant yet frequently overlooked issue is the connection between hearing challenges and balance.  

The vestibular and auditory systems work in tandem to maintain equilibrium, and when one system falters, the other can be adversely affected.  

It’s crucial to take care of your hearing and balance, and with professional care from our team, you can look after both simultaneously. 

Understanding the Connection Between Hearing and Balance 

At the heart of balance lies the vestibular system, located in the inner ear. This intricate network of structures responds to changes in head position and motion, sending signals to the brain about your body’s orientation and movement.  

Meanwhile, the auditory system, also housed in the inner ear, is responsible for hearing. These systems, while serving different functions, are interconnected. As such, if your hearing is impaired, whether due to age-related changes, noise exposure, or other factors, it can impact your sense of balance.  

When one sensory input is diminished, the brain receives conflicting messages from the remaining senses, which can lead to dizziness and increased instability. 

The Prevalence of Dizziness and Falls 

Dizziness is a prevalent concern among older adults and a leading reason for physician visits, second only to headaches and lower back pain; harmful falls are the primary reason individuals over 70 seek medical attention.  

The consequences of this ailment can be dire: Balance-related falls account for over half of all accidental deaths in the elderly, not to mention the numerous hip fractures and hospitalizations resulting from falls in individuals aged 65 and older. 

If you are experiencing balance issues, it can impact various aspects of your daily life. Imbalance and vertigo can make standing and walking difficult, affect your vision, reduce your ability to read or watch television, and can even cloud your decision-making and cognitive function. 

The Role of Professional Dizziness and Balance Screenings 

Our specialized team understands the intricate connection between hearing and balance, and you can rest assured that your dizziness and balance concerns will be addressed by our highly trained team. 

To determine if you are a candidate for treatment, contact us to request a questionnaire for dizziness. Once completed, your responses will be recorded and we’ll get in touch to schedule an appointment.  

The balance screening will be conducted gently and typically involves structured movements of your head and body to reposition crystals within the inner ear. Because treatment may induce lingering sensations of motion, we recommend that you arrange for someone to accompany you or you plan your day to allow for a brief recovery period in our office afterward. 

Taking Action for Your Health 

Finding balance in life – both physically and emotionally – is crucial, especially as we age. Empower yourself by taking the first step toward improved balance and hearing health. You can rely on our compassionate team members, who are dedicated to providing comprehensive care that helps you regain your confidence in both hearing and balance. 

Don't let hearing challenges diminish your quality of life. Contact The Ear Clinic today to schedule your assessment and explore how we can assist you in achieving better balance, hearing, and overall well-being. 

For more information about our services, please don’t hesitate to request a callback or call us at (226) 909-0966. Your journey to better balance starts here!