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Dizziness, vertigo and disequilibrium are common symptoms reported by adults during visits to their doctors. They are all symptoms that can result from a peripheral vestibular disorder (a dysfunction of the balance organs of the inner ear) or central vestibular disorder (a dysfunction of one or more parts of the central nervous system that help process balance and spatial information). Although these three symptoms can be linked by a common cause, they have different meanings, and describing them accurately can mean the difference between a successful diagnosis and one that is missed.

The inner ear’s vestibular organs and the associated nerves and brain centers form a complex system that serves many functions and can be affected by a number of outside systems. A thorough evaluation of the inner ear may therefore require several different kinds of tests.

Evidence has shown that vestibular rehabilitation can be effective in improving symptoms related to many vestibular - inner ear - disorders.1, 2 People with vestibular disorders often experience problems with vertigo, dizziness, visual disturbance, and/or

“Vestibular disorder” is an umbrella term used to encompass many different conditions that affect the inner ear and those parts of the central nervous system involved in maintaining balance.

Vestibular disorders can result from or be worsened by injuries, genetic or environmental conditions, or occur for unknown reasons. There are more than twenty-five known vestibular disorders. Each is unique, but many share common diagnostic traits, which can make it difficult for healthcare professionals to easily differentiate them.

The most commonly diagnosed vestibular disorders include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease, and secondary endolymphatic hydrops. Vestibular disorders also include superior semicircular canal dehiscence, acoustic neuroma, perilymph fistula, ototoxicity, enlarged vestibular aqueduct, migraine-associated vertigo, and Mal de Sébarquement. Other problems related to vestibular dysfunction include complications from aging, autoimmune disorders, and allergies.

Dizziness can happen at any age, but if it results in falling it can be a serious health concern, particularly in the older adult. Studies show that you can take action to reduce dizziness and your risk of falling.

Struggling with the daily symptoms of a vestibular disorder can be disheartening. But there is hope. You can learn coping strategies that reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. Many people describe this as adapting to their “new normal.” Our tips and tools come from vestibular patients, who have learned the hard way that small changes in your lifestyle can make a big difference in your physical, mental and emotional wellness.

Be Prepared Whether you have just started experiencing symptoms of a vestibular disorder or have already been diagnosed, to get the most out of your visits with your doctor it is helpful to assess and

You never thought it would happen. You thought you would work until retirement or beyond, but then along came your vestibular disorder. Now, focusing on a computer screen is a challenge, someone has to drive you to work, walking is a safety hazard, and your concentration is not what it used to be. All of these symptoms can interfere with your ability to do the material duties of your occupation, and can make an attempt to get through a workday exhausting and frustrating as you struggle to complete tasks that used to be easy for you. You see your doctor and she tells you the time has come for you to stop working due to your disability. Now what? How will you live without your income?

Help VeDA Change Patient Outcomes As a healthcare professional specializing in vestibular disorders, you want to provide the best quality care to your patients. VeDA partners with healthcare providers to promote awareness for vestibular disorders,

how YOU can help Support VeDA For over 30 years, VeDA has helped vestibular patients and the healthcare professionals who treat them. Our vision is a world where vestibular disorders are widely understood, rapidly diagnosed,

For over 30 years, VeDA has helped vestibular patients and the healthcare professionals who treat them. Our vision is a world where vestibular disorders are widely understood, rapidly diagnosed, and effectively treated so patients can restore balance and regain life. There are many ways you can help.

The vestibular system includes the parts of the inner ear and brain that process the sensory information involved with controlling balance and eye movements. If disease or injury damages these processing areas, disorders of dizziness or balance can result. Vestibular disorders can also result from, or be worsened by, genetic or environmental conditions, or occur for unknown reasons.

The most commonly diagnosed vestibular disorders include:
– Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
– Vestibular migraine
– Labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis
– Ménière’s disease
– Age-related dizziness & imbalance
– Vestibular damage due to head injury