Vestibular Hypofunction: Another Common Cause of Dizziness

Have you experienced dizziness when shopping at the grocery store? Or unusual fatigue after reading or watching TV? Among other things, you could be dealing with a vestibular hypofunction.

Vestibular hypofunction is a diagnosis given to any condition in which the balance system of the inner ear is not functioning properly. Someone with a vestibular hypofunction may experience:

•Nausea

•Dizziness

•Motion sickness

•Fatigue with repeated movements

•Unsteadiness or loss of balance

•Blurred vision

The most common cause of vestibular hypofunction is a viral or bacterial infection of the vestibular nerve (after the flu or a severe cold). Other common causes include medication interactions, weakness of the vestibular system due to the aging process, and brain injury.

To determine if you have vestibular hypofunction, contact your physician. They may refer you to an ENT who will perform various vestibular testing.

Treatment for vestibular hypofunction includes treating the underlying cause and receiving appropriate medications if needed. After this, vestibular therapy is the most common treatment option.

Vestibular therapy includes exercises that challenge and restore the proper function of the vestibular system. This includes restoring the ability to track objects with your eyes as your head moves, working on balance and trunk control, and performing head movements while walking. A trained physical therapist will be able to progress vestibular exercises to help improve your quality of life.

In our long history, we have witnessed the successful treatment of this condition and the important benefits enjoyed by patients who have chosen our therapeutic services.

*Vestibular Neuritis Image from Cleveland Clinic