DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, AND MANAGEMENT
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of
dizziness and balance disorders is based on several
parameters. Extensive discussions between the patient, the
patient's family, the otologist and the rest of the Balance
Disorder Institute's team regarding medical history, current
symptoms, functional disabilities and specific patient
concerns provide invaluable information. Results from the
diagnostic and functional testing, as well as any other
laboratory and imaging (X-ray) information, combined with
the extensive medical history provide the otologist with the
information needed to diagnose the balance disorder and
identify the associated symptoms of the disorder.
Treatment and Management
The treatment and
management of dizziness and balance disorders can be through
medication, rehabilitation, or surgery. Medication therapy
is typically used to either control the debilitating effects
of acute or immediate dizziness (such as severe spinning),
or treat an underlying cause of the disorder. Medication
therapy is also frequently used for migraine sufferers as
well. Surgery is not often indicated, and is usually
reserved for cases where a combination of medication and
rehabilitation is not effective or where surgical correction
is the only treatment.
Rehabilitation is a common treatment and management
method for dizziness and balance disorders. Often used in
cases of spinning associated with head movement, the patient
is instructed in specific movements that, when performed
daily for a short period of time, can be effective in
eliminating the spinning. Balance disorders are also managed
long-term by the Balance Disorder Institute team. Through a
maintenance program of rehabilitation, medication or both,
long-term effects of the dizziness and balance disorders can
be addressed quickly and
effectively.
