Balance Issues: Possible Causes and Concerns

Q: Balance Issues: Possible Causes and Concerns

Hello Mr. <br>Winnie： You mentioned that "there is a sensation similar to being on a boat, sometimes accompanied by dizziness, which lasted for about a week, and then returned to normal." This may warrant consideration of vestibular neuritis or symptoms related to eustachian tube

Imbalance while walking?

Hello Doctor, about a month ago, I started experiencing symptoms of unsteadiness while walking, and sometimes I felt a sensation similar to being on a boat.
Occasionally, I also felt dizzy.
This lasted for about a week, and then I returned to normal.
However, this week, the same symptoms have reappeared, and sometimes I find it a bit difficult to write.
I visited an otolaryngologist, and they said my ears are normal.
Could you please tell me what this condition might be? Could it be cerebellar atrophy? Thank you, Doctor.

Wei Ni, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/13

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Mr.
Winnie: You mentioned that "there is a sensation similar to being on a boat, sometimes accompanied by dizziness, which lasted for about a week, and then returned to normal." This may warrant consideration of vestibular neuritis or symptoms related to eustachian tube dysfunction.
Typically, cerebellar ataxia is a rare disease that progresses over time, often with a family history.
Common symptoms in patients with cerebellar ataxia include gait disturbances and speech difficulties.
If your symptoms continue to worsen, I recommend consulting a neurologist for discussion and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to reach out for further discussion on related issues! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/10/13

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding your balance issues and associated symptoms. It sounds like you've been experiencing some concerning sensations, including unsteadiness while walking, a feeling akin to being on a boat, and occasional dizziness. These symptoms can be quite distressing, and it's understandable that you're seeking clarity on what might be causing them.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that balance issues can arise from a variety of underlying causes. The symptoms you've described could potentially be linked to several factors, including vestibular disorders, neurological conditions, or even psychological factors such as anxiety. Since you've already consulted an ENT specialist who found no issues with your ears, we can explore other possibilities.

1. Vestibular System: The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. While your ENT examination was normal, vestibular disorders can sometimes be subtle and may not always be detected in a routine exam. Conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis could cause the sensations you're experiencing.

2. Neurological Conditions: Balance issues can also stem from neurological conditions. While you mentioned concerns about cerebellar atrophy (shrinkage of the cerebellum), which can affect coordination and balance, it's important to note that this condition typically presents with a range of other symptoms, including tremors, difficulty with fine motor skills, and more pronounced coordination issues. If you have not experienced these additional symptoms, it may be less likely that cerebellar atrophy is the cause.

3. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also contribute to feelings of dizziness and unsteadiness. Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to sensations of lightheadedness or a feeling of being off-balance. If you've been under significant stress or experiencing anxiety, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as migraines (especially vestibular migraines), low blood pressure, dehydration, or even certain medications can lead to balance issues. It's essential to consider your overall health, any recent changes in medication, or lifestyle factors that might contribute to your symptoms.

Given that your symptoms have recurred after a period of improvement, it would be advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider who can conduct a thorough evaluation. This may include a neurological examination, balance tests, and possibly imaging studies (like an MRI) if deemed necessary.
In the meantime, consider keeping a symptom diary to track when your symptoms occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause of your balance issues.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, they could stem from various causes ranging from vestibular disorders to psychological factors. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to pinpoint the exact cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Don't hesitate to seek further medical advice, especially if your symptoms worsen or if you experience new symptoms. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these concerns promptly is crucial.

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