SYMPTOMS OF A VESTIBULAR CONDITION

Your vestibular system or “balance system” consists of 5 parts of your inner ear that connect with the brain, eyes and body as well as your “stress system” help control balance, eye movements and tell you where you are in space. It is a very important system that lives inside of your inner ear. Your hearing system is also located inside of your inner ear. This system is the size of a dime. 

 

If your vestibular system is damaged, or if a disorder has occurred, you can experience:​

• Vertigo

• Dizziness

• Imbalance/unsteadiness

• Visual disturbances: feeling as if the objects around you are moving when they are not

• Vision problems like having trouble focusing or double vision

• Feeling like you are moving when you are not/rocking sensation

• Feeling like you are walking on a trampoline, clouds, marshmallows

• Disequilibrium with head movements

​

Some of these symptoms may come and go and others may feel constant.

​

You may also experience symptoms of:​

• Nausea

• Altered cognitive function; difficulty concentrating

• Fatigue

• Headaches/head pressure

• Neck pain/stiffness

• Difficulty sleeping

• Digestive issues

 

​​Having a vestibular condition can be life altering and scary. This can cause or exacerbate anxiety and depression. Many simple, day-to-day activities are no longer easy when you have a vestibular disorder. To avoid the symptoms, some people develop a more sedentary lifestyle and avoid certain activities. Although this is a strategy the brain does to protect itself, it is not the best solution and finding the right team to help manage symptoms can help. 

​

Certain situations may be more challenging and lead to increase of symptoms:​

• Walking in crowds

• Going grocery shopping (or to IKEA or Costco)

• Riding in a car

• Going out to eat in a restaurant

• Sitting at a computer all day

• Bright lights or sounds become irritating

​

You do not have to live with these symptoms. There is help!

 

Evidence based programs are designed to help the brain compensate by utilizing other systems such as your neck/body, eyes and incorporate lifestyle modifications to allow your vestibular system to strengthen and heal. A Vestibular Therapist specializes in this treatment.