Have you ever felt like you are losing balance? If you are but do not know precisely why it is happening, perhaps you have an ear problem you are not aware of.
You can have a minor ear problem but not realize that it can cause you to lose your balance. There are a lot of people with this problem who cannot perform their daily activities. Imagine having a hard time doing something, and you did not know where the problem came from.
It is very frustrating, and it can bring you a lot of emotions. However, if you know the problem, you can find the solution.
Here are some ear problems that can affect your balance:
Common Ear Problems That Often Result in a Lack of Balance
1. Tinnitus
Tinnitus is probably the most common cause of loss of balance. It’s described as a ringing in the ears caused by a problem with the nervous system. Tinnitus is not a severe condition, but it can be a source of major frustration.
In some cases, the ringing in your ears can be accompanied by hearing loss. That can also affect your balance. If you get tinnitus, you will likely feel dizzy or off balance. It usually feels like you are in a spinning motion. Commonly, it can result in a feeling of vertigo.
2. Middle Ear Infection
The middle ear is lubricated by a thin layer of fluid that acts as natural ear drops. If the middle ear becomes infected, the infection can spread to the fluid, causing the ear to dry out and inflame.
If the middle ear is dried out, it can cause the vestibular system to malfunction, affecting your balance. People who have had previous ear injuries or infections have a higher chance of suffering from vertigo.
3. Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner and middle ear. It is usually caused by a viral infection or a bacterial infection.
Small canals and tubes connect the inner and middle ear. When you have a labyrinthitis infection, the virus or bacteria will cause these canals and tubes to become inflamed or swollen. That will block the ears’ ability to equalize.
When the ears cannot function properly, that will affect your balance. Even sitting down, you can still feel like you are falling.
4. Ménière’s Disease
Ménière’s disease is a type of balance disorder caused by a malfunctioning inner ear. As a result of the malfunction, an excess amount of fluid will be produced by the inner ear. When this fluid is produced, it will cascade down the ear canal and into the middle ear.
It can cause the ear to swell and become inflamed. As a result, the ear has a difficult time functioning properly.
5. Age-Related Hearing Problems
One of the most common causes of balance problems is as you age, the inner ear will start to lose its ability to process sound vibrations. It becomes harder to hear sounds. The auditory ossicles become stiffer, affecting their ability to transmit sound waves.
With your ears not working as they should be, it’s much harder for you to sense your balance. It can be frustrating for you and your family members.
Conclusion
Losing your sense of balance can be frustrating and scary. If you struggle to keep your balance, you may find it challenging to perform your daily activities. It would be best if you found a solution for your balance problem. If you want to find one, you need to see a doctor and do some tests.
If your doctor finds an ear problem, they will prescribe you a solution. The solution will help you to regain your balance. That way, you can live your life without worrying about falling.
Have your hearing regularly tested! If you are looking for a free hearing test in Lexington or the best hearing clinic, Hear More Associates is the best place to visit. At our clinic, we only want the best hearing care and solution for our clients. We are Greater Boston’s most trusted hearing care specialists. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.
