Vestibular Disorders

Overview

Vestibular disorder is a collective term which includes various diseases involving the inner ear and part of the brain which process the stimulus, controlling balance and eye movements. The example of diseases are benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis, Meniere's disease, endolymphatic hydrops, perilymph fistula, acoustic neuroma and ototoxicity. Vestibular disorders can be originated from the injury due to trauma, genetic factor, environmental conditions, or occasionally occur for unknown reasons. Different conditions may present with different symptoms, but commonly, vestibular disorders are associated with vertigo, tinnitus, chronic positional imbalance, hearing disturbances, some may even have cognitive or psychological changes. To manage such conditions, there are some established manouevers or exercises which may help in condition like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Modification of diet can also help in conditions such as Meniere's disease and endolymphatic hydrops. If the condition is too severe, patients have to resort to medications or surgical correction.