Keeping the core muscles strong is vital for overall stability. But as we age, problems with vision and disturbances in the inner ear can disrupt balance. However, your loved ones are not alone. Nearly 8 million adults of all ages in the US report balance disorders every year. This number tends to rise significantly after 75 years of age. Seniors begin to feel a sense of motion, blurriness, lightheadedness, nausea and change in blood pressure, according to an article by Medical News Today. In fact, many also tend to feel disoriented, anxious and confused.
Therefore, it is crucial to identify the causes early. This helps to prevent deterioration and manage the situation better. With timely treatment, the elderly will be able to move around independently, without falling. Take a look at why balance disorder takes place.
Why Do Seniors Lose Their Balance?
It is common among seniors to have an unsteady walk. They start experiencing dizziness without explanation. These symptoms occur due to different reasons, such as:
Vertigo
Fluid buildup, swelling or infection can cause vertigo and lead to loss of balance frequently, according to an article by WebMD. However, factors like vision complications, stroke and stress can also cause vertigo. Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Head Injury
An injury can lead to the inner ear fluid or endolymph leaking into the middle part of the ear. Studies have shown that 30%-65% of people with traumatic brain injury live with disequilibrium. However, this is mostly cured once the injury heals.
Labyrinthitis
A part of the inner ear, called the vestibular system, is often responsible for balance issues. This is known as the labyrinthitis, which swells and gets infected, leading to imbalance and vertigo, according to an article by the National Institute on Aging. Viral or bacterial infections can also lead to labyrinthitis.
Other causes of loss of balance include shin splints, bone fractures, arthritis, tendonitis and infections in the leg tissues.
Treatment Methods
One the best ways to treat the condition is through physical therapy. Therapists at the best rehabilitation center suggest exercises to improve mind-muscle coordination, along with providing aids to support the muscles and joints till they are stronger, according to experts at Coastal Home Rehab. Physical therapy can bring about noticeable improvement in the functions of tendons, ligaments and bones. You will also see significant changes in flexibility and movement. This is possible without surgeries, which usually requires a prolonged recovery process.
The doctors will ask questions about the episodes of disbalance to make an accurate diagnosis and create a custom treatment plan. Make sure to be completely honest and provide all information for the best results.