Hearing and balance disorders are very common. In fact, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), about 17% of all Americans suffer from some degree of hearing loss, and that percentage increases dramatically as we age. Because the inner ear plays such an important role in helping us to maintain balance, balance disorders often go hand-in-hand with hearing problems. Hearing and balance disorders can be difficult to diagnose and treat because there are a wide variety of possible causes for these disorders. If you are suffering from hearing loss or balance problems, you should come in to be evaluated. Depending on the cause for your condition, there are many excellent treatment options that could help improve your symptoms or bring you relief.
What causes hearing loss?
Hearing is an extremely complex process in which sound vibrations are collected and interpreted through the interaction of the delicate structures of the inner, middle and outer ear, and the brain and nervous system. Generally, there are two types of hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss happens when there is damage to the inner ear, acoustic nerve or the brain itself. Sensorineural hearing loss cannot be medically or surgically repaired, although hearing devices may help improve hearing. Conductive hearing loss happens when sound vibrations are not conducted efficiently from the outer and middle ear to the inner ear. Conductive hearing loss can often be medically or surgically corrected. Some patients suffer from a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, known as mixed hearing loss.
What causes balance disorders?
Our body is able to maintain position through a complex balance system that integrates components of the inner ear, as well as the skeletal, visual, brain and nervous systems. Often times, balance orders go hand-in-hand with many hearing problems, but because the balance system relies on input from so many areas, there are literally hundreds of problems that may cause balance issues. This makes balance disorders particularly difficult to diagnose and treat.
How are hearing and balance disorders diagnosed?
There are many different types of, and reasons for, hearing and balance disorders. In order to determine the best treatment options for your condition, our team at Summit Sleep and Sinus Center will conduct a thorough physical examination with a comprehensive medical history and arrange for any appropriate tests to determine the type, degree and causes for your hearing loss or balance problems. Depending on your individual circumstances, tests may include hearing tests, balance tests, and other measures, such as CT and blood testing.
How are hearing and balance disorders treated?
Treatment will depend on many factors, including the type, severity and cause for your condition. Treatment might include medications, surgery, hearing aids, and physical therapy to improve balance. Dr. Paraiso will evaluate your condition and thoroughly discuss all the appropriate treatment options with you.
How do I get more information about hearing and balance disorders?
Dr. Paraiso will be happy to discuss hearing and balance disorders with you. Please call Summit Office Phone Number 908-522-0047 to arrange for a private consultation at our Summit, NJ office.
