Vestibular disorders are conditions caused by dysfunction of the vestibular system located in the inner ear. The condition leads to symptoms such as dizziness, loss of balance, and blurred vision, which affect daily activities and increase the risk of falls and injuries. Let Hoan My Gold PXL Medical Center guide you through proactive prevention measures and effective treatment options to better control vestibular disorders and restore stable balance to your body.

What is the vestibular system?

The vestibular system is a part of the inner ear that plays a vital role in maintaining balance, posture, and coordinating body movements. Thanks to this system, we are able to walk steadily, turn our head, bend down, or lie down without feeling dizzy or disoriented.

What are vestibular disorders?

Vestibular disorders occur when the vestibular system does not function properly, causing symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, imbalance, nausea, tinnitus, difficulty concentrating, or blurred vision when changing posture. This is not a single disease but a syndrome caused by multiple underlying conditions.

Causes of vestibular disorders

  • Impaired cerebral blood circulation, chronic cerebral ischemia
  • Vestibular neuritis (viral infection)
  • Ménière’s disease – inner ear damage with fluid accumulation
  • Head or ear injuries
  • Side effects of medications (aminoglycoside antibiotics, anti-epileptic drugs, antidepressants, antipsychotics, etc.)
  • Chronic stress, anxiety disorders, prolonged insomnia

Typical symptoms

  • Spinning dizziness – a sensation that surroundings are rotating
  • Loss of balance, lightheadedness, especially when standing up or changing position suddenly
  • Nausea, vomiting, persistent floating sensation
  • Tinnitus, hearing loss, sometimes ringing or buzzing sounds in the ear
  • Difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis is usually based on:

  • Neurological examination and ENT specialist examination
  • Specialized tests such as the Dix–Hallpike test, rotary chair test
  • Hearing tests and vestibular function assessments
  • MRI or CT scan (if necessary)

Depending on the cause, treatment options include:

  • Symptomatic medications: antihistamines, antiemetics, anti-vertigo drugs
  • Vestibular rehabilitation: balance and movement exercises
  • Lifestyle modification: adequate sleep, stress reduction, avoiding stimulants
  • Surgery in special cases (e.g., severe Ménière’s disease unresponsive to medical treatment)

Prevention of vestibular disorders

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet; avoid smoking, alcohol, and excessive caffeine
  • Keep a positive mindset and get enough sleep
  • Practice gentle physical exercises to improve blood circulation and balance
  • Avoid sudden changes in posture or activities involving rapid head movements
  • Control underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol
  • Consult a doctor when using medications that may cause dizziness as a side effect

Vestibular disorders are not life-threatening, but they significantly affect quality of life. Early detection and timely treatment help control symptoms effectively and prevent recurrence.

This article was medically reviewed by: MSc, MD, Specialist Level II Dinh Thi Xuan Mai – General Internal Medicine & Endocrinology Physician, Hoan My Gold PXL Medical Center.

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