The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Balance Issues

If you’re experiencing a loss of balance it can be really concerning. Chances are, your first thought is that it’s something neurological happening in the brain or nervous system, which of course raises red flags for many people that worry about things like brain tumors. However, had you considered that the issue might actually be in your ear? If you’re experiencing hearing loss at the same time then chances are there’s a connection between the two. Of course, you should always get something like this checked out by a medical professional but understanding the link between hearing loss and balance issues can be useful to know.

What is the Connection between Hearing Loss and Balance?

Our inner ear is pretty amazing – its responsible for our ability to hear as well as our sense of balance. Inside, we have two important parts, the cochlea and the vestibular system. These two systems have to work together to help us process sounds and keep balanced. Hearing loss can happen due to age, exposure to loud noises or other factors like other health issues and when it happens it can throw off the delicate balance in your inner ear.

When the cochlea’s function is reduced this can mean less sound will reach your brain, which affects your ability to hear things clearly. On top of that it can also mess with the signals your brain receives to keep you balanced and that’s when symptoms like dizziness or trouble with coordination can crop up.

What Causes Hearing Loss and Balance Issues?

Both hearing loss and balance problems can be caused by a number of factors. Aging is one of these factors as the inner ear structures naturally wear down over time, all of the loud noises throughout your lifetime can cause damage over time to your hearing and as a result throw off your balance. Other possible causes of reduced hearing include infections, head injuries, certain medications and underlying health conditions.

How to Treat and Prevent Hearing Loss and Balance Issues?

There are ways to treat and even prevent hearing loss and balance problems. If you’re dealing with more significant hearing loss then an audiologist can recommend hearing aids. These come in all different styles these days, from in-the-ear (ITE), behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids. They work by amplifying sounds so you can hear better and communicate more easily with others and the world around you. When it comes to balance issues, physical therapy or targeted exercises can improve your balance and overall stability and can help on top of improving your reduced hearing.

Prevention is Key

Prevention is key too when it comes to maintaining your hearing health and reducing the risk of both hearing loss and balance problems. If you take proactive steps to protect your ears from loud noises like using earmuffs or custom earplugs then you will minimize the impact on your delicate auditory system. Earmuffs are designed to cover your entire ear and provide a physical shield against loud sounds, they’re particularly useful in environments with sustained high noise levels, such as construction sites or industrial settings. On the other hand, custom earplugs are molded to fit your ears specifically. This means you get a snug and comfortable fit and are a great option for situations where you need to protect your hearing while still maintaining situational awareness like during concerts or while participating in sports.

Get Checked Out

Regular check-ups with an audiologist are another way to prevent hearing loss and balance issues. By scheduling routine appointments, you can stay on top of your hearing health and address any potential concerns early on, even if you have no current hearing worries. Audiologists can give a comprehensive evaluation of your hearing and balance systems, helping to identify any changes or issues in the really early stages that might require attention.

Understanding the connection between hearing loss and balance issues is really important for your overall wellbeing if you’re someone who is experiencing these symptoms together. If you or someone you care about is experiencing these challenges, don’t hesitate to seek help even if it’s just to give yourself peace of mind.

Reach out to Alliance Center for Hearing at (701) 401-9719 to learn more about how they can assist you. Taking care of your hearing now can help you stay balanced and engaged in the world around you for years to come.