Vertigo (Dizziness) and Balance Problems

Dizziness and balance issues are one of the most common reasons people visit their physician and also account for 4% of all emergency room visits. In fact, most people will experience dizziness in their lifetime with the elderly being particularly affected. In addition to feeling awful, dizziness can lead to falls and injuries. Falls from dizziness or loss of balance account for half of all accidental deaths in people over 65 years of age.

Why am I dizzy and off-balance?

Balance and equilibrium disorders are the result of complex interactions between our somatosensory system (touch and feel system), our visual system, and the inner ear where the vestibular system (balance system) is located. If any of these systems are disrupted, a person can suffer balance or equilibrium issues. Most people refer to these problems as "being dizzy."

Evaluation and treatment

If you experience dizziness or equilibrium problems, you may be referred to an ENT doctor like the experienced doctors at Greenville Ear, Nose, and Throat Associates. We will listen to your concerns and how it affects your life. We will fully evaluate your signs and symptoms, assess your medications that might cause your symptoms, and perform a thorough physical examination. We may also order some tests like bloodwork, imaging, or more specialized balance tests to diagnose the problem. We will meet with you to discuss your results and decide on an effective plan of treatment specific for you.

We are here for you

If you are dizzy or feel off-balance, we at Greenville ENT Associates encourage you to give us a call. We look forward to doing a complete evaluation and working with you to regain your quality of life.