Dizziness and Balance Diagnostics

Regain Stability and Confidence with Expert Balance Care

Balance is important for daily tasks such as walking and driving. Issues with dizziness and balance can have a significant impact on general health and quality of life. These challenges frequently result in decreased mobility, raising the risk of falls and other accidents.

At Laurel Highlands Hearing & Balance, we specialize in identifying and treating balance issues, allowing patients to restore stability and confidence. With cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and a sympathetic approach, we provide personalized care to each individual. Patients can maintain their independence and well-being by treating balance issues as early as possible.

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(814) 809-8988

What Causes Dizziness and Balance Issues?

Dizziness and balance problems can stem from various underlying causes. Inner ear problems, such as infections or inflammation, are among the most common culprits. Vestibular disorders, including conditions like Ménière's disease and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), directly affect the body’s ability to maintain equilibrium.

Meanwhile, certain medical conditions like low blood pressure, migraines, or neurological disorders can contribute to balance difficulties. The connection between hearing health and balance is also significant, as the inner ear plays a dual role in both functions. Understanding these causes is critical to effective diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing symptoms and seeking timely care can lead to improved outcomes.

Who Should Seek Balance Testing?

Individuals who experience frequent or persistent balance issues should consider seeking a professional evaluation. Patients experiencing these symptoms should seek balance testing.

Frequent episodes of dizziness or spinning sensations can indicate underlying vestibular issues. Vertigo, characterized by a false sense of motion, often signals a problem with the inner ear or brain. This condition can interfere with routine tasks, making simple movements like turning the head uncomfortable. Ignoring these symptoms may lead to worsening conditions or unexpected falls. If dizziness persists for extended periods, professional testing is important. Early diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and minimizes potential complications.

Feeling unsteady on your feet or struggling to walk in a straight line can be alarming. This symptom may stem from vestibular dysfunction or other health issues like muscle weakness or neurological conditions. Patients often describe a sensation of imbalance, particularly on uneven surfaces or in low-light environments. Over time, this unsteadiness can lead to a fear of walking or even complete immobility. Seeking expert care promptly can prevent further loss of confidence and physical ability. Comprehensive balance testing helps pinpoint the root cause, allowing for targeted interventions.

Sensitivity to movement, such as feeling dizzy when riding in a car or standing up quickly, can indicate vestibular abnormalities. This motion sensitivity often disrupts daily life, making ordinary activities challenging. Patients with imbalance issues may avoid certain movements or environments, limiting their participation in social or physical activities. These limitations can impact mental health and overall well-being. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of motion sensitivity can restore confidence and enhance mobility. Professional evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Delaying care for balance issues can lead to severe complications, including falls and injuries. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults, often resulting in hospitalization or long-term health problems. Early intervention can prevent these outcomes by addressing balance issues before they escalate. Diagnostic testing offers valuable insights into the cause of dizziness or imbalance, enabling timely and effective treatment. Seeking care early promotes better outcomes, improved quality of life, and greater peace of mind.

Diagnostic Services Offered

When addressing dizziness and balance concerns, accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Our practice provides various diagnostic services designed to identify the root causes of balance issues.

Comprehensive balance testing evaluates the vestibular system and other factors contributing to instability. This assessment includes a thorough review of symptoms, medical history, and physical examinations. Advanced diagnostic tools help measure the function of balance-related systems, offering precise insights into the underlying problem.

These evaluations are critical for developing tailored treatment plans that address each patient’s specific needs. Regular testing can also monitor progress and adjust care as needed. We take time to understand the full scope of a patient’s condition and deliver more effective and lasting solutions.

Videonystagmography (VNG) is a specialized test that examines eye movements to assess vestibular function. The inner ear and eyes work together to maintain balance, making this evaluation important for detecting abnormalities. During the test, patients wear goggles that track eye movements while following visual targets or experiencing positional changes.

VNG helps identify conditions like BPPV or vestibular neuritis by analyzing how the eyes respond to movement. The results provide valuable information for creating an effective treatment plan. This non-invasive test is a cornerstone of our diagnostic approach.

The connection between hearing and balance is often overlooked but plays a critical role in overall stability. Diagnostic tests can determine whether hearing issues, such as hearing loss or tinnitus, contribute to balance problems. The inner ear’s dual function in hearing and equilibrium makes this evaluation particularly important.

Identifying hearing-related causes allows for more comprehensive care, addressing both aspects simultaneously. Patients often find that improving hearing health has a positive impact on their balance and mobility. Our integrated approach ensures no detail is missed in the diagnostic process. With our advanced diagnostics and personalized care, we help patients regain control over their balance and improve their overall quality of life.

Request an Appointment

(814) 809-8988

What to Expect During Testing

When you visit Laurel Highlands Hearing & Balance, you can expect a welcoming and supportive environment designed to put you at ease. Our compassionate team is dedicated to making your diagnostic process as seamless and stress-free as possible.

The Diagnostic Process

Patients are assured of a swift diagnostic process when they choose our hearing practice. Here’s an explanation of our balance testing diagnostic process:

Initial Consultation to Discuss Symptoms and Medical History

The diagnostic journey begins with an in-depth consultation. During this initial discussion, we’ll ask about your symptoms, such as dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues, and any hearing difficulties you may be experiencing. Your medical history is also an important part of the process, as it helps us identify potential contributing factors like past ear infections, surgeries, or neurological conditions.

We’ll take the time to understand your concerns, ensuring we’re aligned with your specific needs. This is an opportunity for you to share details about your lifestyle and daily activities that could be affected by balance or hearing issues. We gather information to build a comprehensive profile to guide testing and treatment. Our goal is to ensure you feel heard and fully informed throughout the process.

Comfortable, Non-Invasive Testing Procedures

Testing procedures are designed with your comfort in mind. Depending on your symptoms, we may perform several assessments to evaluate your hearing and balance systems. Audiometric testing measures your ability to hear sounds of various pitches and volumes, while tympanometry assesses the function of your middle ear. If balance issues are a concern, vestibular tests like videonystagmography (VNG) testing may be conducted to examine how your inner ear contributes to balance.

These procedures are non-invasive, meaning there’s no need for needles or surgical instruments. Each test is explained in detail beforehand, so you know what to expect and can relax during the process. Our advanced technology ensures accurate results, helping us pinpoint the root cause of your symptoms.

Customized Treatment Plans

We believe every patient deserves a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Your test results guide our recommendations, ensuring we address the underlying causes of your hearing or balance concerns with precision and care.

How Test Results Guide Treatment Recommendations

After reviewing your diagnostic results, we’ll create a personalized plan to improve your quality of life. Whether through therapy, devices, or referrals, our team ensures you receive the best possible care.

In some cases, your condition may require input from other medical specialists. If your test results indicate the need for further evaluation, we’ll connect you with trusted professionals, such as neurologists, physical therapists, or ENT surgeons. Referrals are handled seamlessly, with your records and test results shared to facilitate a smooth transition.

Our team collaborates closely with these specialists to ensure continuity of care and optimal outcomes. You’ll never feel left in the dark, as we provide guidance and support every step of the way. By partnering with other experts, we aim to address all aspects of your health comprehensively. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re committed to finding the right solutions for you.

For patients experiencing balance or dizziness issues, vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is often an effective solution. This special physical therapy focuses on retraining your body’s balance system. Exercises are customized to improve your ability to walk, stand, and perform daily activities without fear of falling. VRT may include eye movement exercises, balance retraining, and techniques to reduce dizziness.

The therapy progresses at your pace, with adjustments made to meet your comfort level and goals. Regular follow-up sessions ensure your progress is monitored and any challenges are addressed promptly. Many patients find significant relief through VRT, regaining confidence and independence in their everyday lives.

For patients whose balance issues stem from hearing loss, hearing aids or assistive listening devices can make a significant difference. These devices not only improve hearing but also enhance spatial awareness and communication, which are important for maintaining balance. Our team will guide you through selecting the right device, considering factors such as your lifestyle, budget, and specific hearing needs.

Once a device is chosen, we’ll ensure it’s properly fitted and adjusted for maximum comfort and effectiveness. Training is provided to help you get the most out of your hearing aids or assistive devices. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to fine-tune settings and address any concerns you may have. With the right tools, you can enjoy improved hearing and a better sense of stability, enhancing your overall quality of life.