What is Vestibular Hypofunction?
Vestibular hypofunction is a condition where the vestibular system, responsible for balance and spatial orientation, is underactive or not working properly. This reduced function can affect one or both sides of the inner ear, leading to balance problems and dizziness.
What Are the Symptoms of Vestibular Hypofunction?
- Persistent dizziness or unsteadiness
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance, especially in the dark or on uneven surfaces
- Blurred vision or difficulty focusing during head movements
- Feeling off-balance or sensation of tilting
- Nausea or motion sensitivity
- Increased risk of falls
What Causes Vestibular Hypofunction?
- Viral infections affecting the inner ear (vestibular neuritis)
- Aging-related degeneration of vestibular structures
- Head trauma or injury
- Ototoxic medications that damage the inner ear (e.g., some antibiotics)
- Autoimmune inner ear disease
- Meniere’s disease or other inner ear disorders
- Stroke or neurological conditions affecting vestibular pathways
How is Vestibular Hypofunction Diagnosed?
- Medical history and symptom review
- Physical examination with focus on balance and eye movement tests
- Vestibular function tests such as videonystagmography (VNG) or rotary chair testing
- Hearing tests to check for associated hearing loss
- Imaging studies (MRI or CT) to rule out central nervous system causes
How is Vestibular Hypofunction Treated?
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
- Customized exercises designed to improve balance and retrain the brain to compensate for vestibular loss
- Medications
- Short-term use of anti-nausea or vestibular suppressants during severe dizziness episodes
- Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoid sudden head movements and use caution when walking on uneven surfaces
- Assistive Devices
- Canes or walkers may be recommended to reduce fall risk during recovery
- Surgery
- Rarely needed, reserved for specific underlying causes
Complications of Untreated Vestibular Hypofunction
- Increased fall risk leading to injuries
- Persistent dizziness and balance difficulties
- Anxiety and depression related to chronic symptoms
- Reduced independence and quality of life
Living with Vestibular Hypofunction
- Adhere to vestibular rehabilitation exercises consistently
- Use safety aids as recommended
- Maintain a safe home environment to prevent falls
- Communicate regularly with your healthcare provider about symptoms
- Seek emotional support if coping becomes difficult