Inner ear problems that cause dizziness may have serious consequences for the elderly. Symptoms of vestibular dysfunction such as dizziness and spinning sensations had an eight-fold increase risk of falling. Maintaining our sense of balance is a complex process that involves the vestibular system — organs in the inner ear that keep us upright by sending messages to the brain about our orientation — what we see and touch, as well as the strength of our muscles.
Who’s at risk?
The elderly have a higher risk of getting inner ear balance disorders. So do those who have had head injuries or who position their heads in uncommon ways. Said Dr Yuen: “It’s been found that people who put their heads in abnormal positions, such as those who practice yoga regularly, are more prone to getting inner ear balance problems.”
People who have vestibular disorders may find it tough to maintain equilibrium because information necessary for balance is not sent to the brain. These include giddiness and spinning sensations when they move their body or head. Sweating, nausea and vomiting may also occur.
On average, over half of the patients he sees at the hospital are above the age of 50. “If a young man feels dizzy, he can still use his eyes or his muscular power to maintain balance. The ability to use sensory cues to compensate for giddiness is diminished in the elderly,” explained Dr Yuen.
While an inner ear balance disorder cannot be prevented, it can be easily diagnosed after a careful physical examination by an ENT doctor. The remedy will depend on what the problem is. With prompt treatment — which includes medication and therapy — most recover eventually, said Dr Yuen.
Dr Yuen Heng Wai, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) consultant at Alexandra Hospital’s department of otolaryngology
July 9, 2009 at 12:43 pm |
[...] Original post by nicolask [...]
July 9, 2009 at 1:35 pm |
nice info!!
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