How Is Hearing Connected to Balance?

What’s the connection between balance and hearing? Although hearing loss doesn’t specifically cause balance problems, some inner ear issues that lead to hearing loss can impact balance. Proper treatment of these issues can restore equilibrium and improve mobility.

What Systems Are Involved in Balance?

Balance is controlled by a combination of the vestibular system, one’s sense of eyesight, and the proprioceptive information to the musculoskeletal system. The vestibular system is found in the labyrinth of the inner ear, which contains several small, delicate organs that help regulate balance, including the otolithic organs and three semicircular canals. One of these sends the body signals about tilting motions, one sends signals about sideways motions, and one sends signals about up and down motion. These signals are regulated by environmental feedback gathered by the fluid and hair cells within the inner ear. Inner ear problems that affect balance include inner ear infection or blood circulation problems as well as tiny crystals floating in the semicircular canals.

What Are the Symptoms of Balance Issues?

Those who are affected by an issue with one of the factors influencing balance may experience the following symptoms:

• A floating feeling
• Dizziness
• Confusion or disorientation
• Unsteady gait
• Blurry vision
• Vertigo
• Faintness
• Panic or fear
• Feelings of depression or anxiety

When hearing loss is associated with a balance disorder, the person may also experience vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, or heart rate and blood pressure issues.

How Are Balance Disorders Treated?

Balance testing by an experienced audiologist can help determine the existence of a balance disorder. In most cases, the underlying medical problem affecting balance must be treated for these symptoms to be resolved. Some people benefit from a type of physical therapy called vestibular rehabilitation, which can help to restore balance.

At Hearing Consultants of Colorado Springs, we will test your hearing and treat any problems that can affect balance. Book an appointment online or call (719) 633-1494 today to learn more about our services.