Balance Disorders in Port Neches, TX

If you’re experiencing dizziness or having trouble maintaining balance, you may be suffering from a balance disorder. These disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions, problems with the brain or inner ear, or even certain medications. Whatever the cause, a balance disorder can significantly impact your quality of life.

Fortunately, if you live in Port Neches, TX, there is help available. Dr. Herndon specializes in diagnosing and treating balance disorders, so you can get back to feeling like yourself again. Whether you’re dealing with vertigo, unsteadiness, or other balance-related issues, we have the expertise and technology to accurately diagnose your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Don’t let a balance disorder control your life any longer. Give our office a call at (409) 729-6401 or request an appointment through our secure online form today. Board-certified ENT specialist Dr. Herndon is here to help you regain your balance and get back to doing the things you love. And with our convenient location in Port Neches, TX, help is closer than you think. Contact us today to take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life.

What is a Balance Disorder?

Balance disorders happen when the connection between your central nervous system and your brain keeps you from feeling steady on your feet. These issues may be symptoms of a medical condition or problems in the brain or inner ear. A balance disorder can profoundly affect daily activities and cause psychological and emotional hardship.

What are the Symptoms of a Balance Disorder?

If you have a balance disorder, you may feel like you are:

• Unsteady
• Dizzy
• Faint
• Moving
• Spinning (vertigo)
• Floating
• Tipping over
• Experiencing blurred vision
• Confused or disorientated

Other symptoms might include nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; changes in heart rate and blood pressure; and fear, anxiety, or panic. Symptoms may come and go over short time periods or last for a long time and can lead to fatigue and depression.

What Causes a Balance Disorder?

Unfortunately, many balance disorders start suddenly and with no obvious cause. The risk increases with age and may be due to a number of factors. Talk with board-certified ENT Specialist Dr. Herndon to evaluate your specific condition and symptoms.

Causes of balance problems may include:

• Medications
• Ear infection
• Migraines
• A head injury
• Anything else that affects the inner ear or brain
• Low blood pressure
• Certain neurological conditions
• Arthritis or eye muscle imbalance
• Motion sickness
• Inner ear problems
  • Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) when the inner ear is disrupted as you might experience a spinning sensation when turning in bed or tilting your head back to look up
  • Vestibular neuritis inflammatory disorder can affect the nerves in the balance portion of your inner ear
  • Labyrinthitis is inflammation in your labyrinth, the inner ear system that’s responsible for hearing and balance

What Treatment Options Are Available for Balance Disorders?

If you are experiencing a balance disorder, you may talk to several specialists or providers. It can be difficult to diagnose a balance disorder, so it is best to consult a team of experts.

You may visit with an otolaryngologist and an audiologist. An otolaryngologist is a physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, neck, and throat. An audiologist is a clinician who specializes in the function of the hearing and vestibular systems.

You may be asked to perform a number of tests and discuss your medical and health history to get a complete picture about your balance disorder.

Dr. Herndon will work with you through diagnosis and treatment.

Some common treatment options for balance disorders include:

• Treating an underlying condition
• Managing medications
• Procedure to help the ear canal, (An Epley maneuver is used if you have BPPV)
• Diet or lifestyle changes
• Anti-vertigo or anti-nausea medications for relief
• Antibiotics or corticosteroids may be prescribed
• Vestibular rehabilitation therapy