Inner Ear Imbalance: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Inner ear imbalance

On the morning of March 12 this year, I suddenly experienced dizziness upon waking up, with objects appearing to spin (I can't remember if it was to the left or right, and it lasted about 10 seconds).
I felt nauseous but did not vomit.
When swallowing saliva, I felt something in my throat, but it was not painful.
When I visited the doctor, he diagnosed me with a common cold and started symptomatic treatment.
After taking medication, I felt some improvement, but I still experienced dizziness when lying down or getting up (lasting about 3 to 5 seconds).
Later, I felt a persistent pressure in my head and had difficulty concentrating at work.
On March 16, I visited another clinic where my blood pressure was alarmingly high at 160 mmHg systolic and 120 mmHg diastolic.
The doctor instructed me to place a medication under my tongue, and after 20 minutes, my blood pressure dropped to 140 mmHg systolic and 100 mmHg diastolic.
The doctor mentioned that I might have hypertension but did not prescribe antihypertensive medication initially (as these medications need to be taken long-term, and it was necessary to confirm whether it was caused by the cold).
Subsequently, my blood pressure readings at home have been around 120 mmHg/80 mmHg (up to today).
Finally, around March 25, I visited another ENT specialist who said that my symptoms were due to throat inflammation (since from March 12 to March 25, I felt something in my throat but it was not painful, and I also experienced a slight sensation of dizziness [the doctor referred to it as the "tail" of dizziness], which was not severe).
He indicated that there was inner ear imbalance, which could cause the symptoms I experienced, and that the high blood pressure was also a reactive response to the inner ear imbalance.
After taking medication for 9 days, I no longer have the aforementioned symptoms, but I feel that my physical strength has diminished.

I have the following questions:
1.
Is my condition caused by inner ear imbalance?
2.
If it is caused by inner ear imbalance, have I fully recovered? The doctor mentioned that it could recur in 2 years or even 10 years; is that true? How can it be permanently resolved?
3.
Can inner ear imbalance really cause high blood pressure?
4.
If I need to undergo tests (blood tests or others), what specific items should be checked?

T.R., 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/12

Dr. Jian Huangqi reply Otolaryngology

You may have vestibular neuritis, and you should consult an otolaryngologist specializing in neurotology.

Reply Date: 2005/04/12

More Info

Inner ear imbalance, also known as vestibular dysfunction, can lead to a variety of symptoms including dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues. Your experience of sudden dizziness upon waking, accompanied by a sensation of spinning and nausea, aligns with common presentations of inner ear disorders. The inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation, and any disruption can lead to significant discomfort and impairment.

1. Is this caused by inner ear imbalance?
Based on your symptoms, it is plausible that your condition is related to inner ear imbalance. The sensation of spinning (vertigo) and the feeling of pressure in your head can be indicative of vestibular disorders. Conditions such as vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, often triggered by viral infections, can cause these symptoms. Your doctor’s assessment that your symptoms are linked to throat inflammation affecting the inner ear is also a valid consideration, as inflammation can impact the Eustachian tube and lead to pressure changes in the inner ear.

2. Have I fully recovered from inner ear imbalance?
While you report improvement after medication, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Recovery from inner ear disorders can vary significantly among individuals. Some may experience complete resolution, while others might have recurrent episodes. The mention of potential recurrence over the next few years is not uncommon in vestibular disorders. To manage and potentially prevent future episodes, vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) may be beneficial. This therapy involves specific exercises designed to improve balance and reduce dizziness.

3. Can inner ear imbalance cause high blood pressure?
Yes, inner ear imbalance can contribute to elevated blood pressure. The body’s response to dizziness and vertigo can trigger a stress response, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure. This is often a temporary reaction; however, chronic stress or anxiety related to recurrent dizziness can lead to sustained hypertension. It’s crucial to address both the vestibular symptoms and any associated anxiety to manage blood pressure effectively.

4. What tests should I consider?
If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms or have concerns about your health, further evaluation may be warranted. Blood tests can help rule out underlying conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or anemia, which can contribute to dizziness. Additionally, tests to assess your vestibular function, such as videonystagmography (VNG) or electronystagmography (ENG), can provide insight into the specific nature of your inner ear dysfunction. A hearing test (audiometry) might also be useful to evaluate any potential hearing loss associated with your symptoms.

In conclusion, while your symptoms have improved, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult with healthcare providers if symptoms recur or worsen. A multidisciplinary approach, including ENT specialists and possibly neurologists, can provide comprehensive care. Engaging in lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and possibly vestibular rehabilitation can also enhance your recovery and reduce the likelihood of future episodes.

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