Can ear problems cause dizziness? Yes, ear problems can cause dizziness. Ear problems that cause dizziness is a condition known as vertigo. Vertigo is often caused by either an inner ear dysfunction or a problem with the vestibular nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain. Colorado ENT & Allergy specializes in treating ear problems that can lead to dizziness. This blog article dives into everything you need to know about ear problems that cause dizziness.
Did you know? The inner ear is vital for maintaining balance in the body. Around 30% of people in the US experience long-term dizziness or vertigo at some point in their lives. These symptoms can happen when standing up, bending over, changing head position, or even turning in bed. Colorado ENT & Allergy’s ENT specialists create personalized strategies to alleviate chronic dizziness and balance problems.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a type of dizziness that is associated with a feeling of spinning or swaying, even when the individual and their surroundings are stationary. This sensation can be fleeting or persistent, causing extreme discomfort and nausea.
What Causes Vertigo?
Vertigo is often caused by inner ear problems such as:
- Meniere’s Disease.
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
- Vestibular Neuritis.
- Labyrinthitis
- Acoustic Neuroma.
Other causes of vertigo can include head trauma, stroke, migraines, certain medications, and anxiety disorders. Vertigo is typically caused by certain inner ear problems and can be triggered by head movements.
Common Vertigo Symptoms
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
- An unsteady gait or balance difficulty.
- A sensation of spinning or whirling.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision
Other possible symptoms may include hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or a sensation of fullness in the ear.
It is important to schedule your ENT appointment today if you experience any of these symptoms so an ENT specialist can assess whether you have vertigo and what might be causing it.