One may not naturally associate dizzy spells or feelings of imbalance with the ears, but this seemingly unusual connection is indeed critical in our understanding of vestibular disorders. Inside the inner ear, a complex labyrinth of structures plays a key role in maintaining our sense of balance. Disruptions to this system often lead to conditions characterized by dizzy spells, unsteadiness, and vertigo.
Anatomy and Function of the Inner Ear
To comprehend the connection between the ear and dizzy spells, one must first understand the anatomy and function of the inner ear. It is a multifunctional organ with a dual role in hearing and balance. For the purpose of this article, the focus will be on its role in balance.
The inner ear houses the vestibular system, a delicate structure consisting of three semicircular canals and two otolith organs – the utricle and saccule. These parts are filled with fluid and tiny hair cells that detect movement. The semicircular canals sense rotational movements, while the otolith organs detect linear movements and gravity.
When the head moves, the fluid within these structures also moves, causing the hair cells to bend. This bending creates an electrical signal that travels via the vestibulocochlear nerve to the brain, communicating information about the body’s position and motion. The brain integrates these signals with those from the eyes and proprioceptive receptors in muscles and joints, forming a comprehensive perception of balance.
Connection to Dizzy Spells
Dizzy spells, clinically termed as ‘vertigo’, typically arise due to a disturbance in this vestibular system. Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or feeling off-balance, and it’s often triggered by issues within the inner ear or brain.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is one of the most common types of vertigo, resulting from tiny calcium particles clumping up in the inner ear canals. These particles disrupt the fluid movement, sending abnormal signals to the brain and causing brief episodes of mild to intense dizziness.
Meniere’s Disease
This disorder is characterized by a buildup of fluid in the inner ear, leading to episodes of vertigo that may last hours. In addition to vertigo, individuals with Meniere’s disease often experience tinnitus (ringing in the ear) and hearing loss.
Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis
These are inflammation of the inner ear usually caused by viral infections. They result in dizziness, loss of balance, and occasionally, hearing loss.
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)
SCDS is a rare condition that occurs when a thinning or absence of the bone covering the superior semicircular canal of the inner ear allows abnormal sound- and pressure-induced stimulation of the vestibular system, leading to vertigo and balance problems.
Vestibular Migraines
These migraines cause vertigo, imbalance, and other symptoms without a headache but with a history of migraines. The exact link between migraines and the inner ear is still being researched, but it is thought that neurochemical changes may influence both the brain and the inner ear.
How We Treat Ear Issues and Dizzy Spells
Dr. Alex Bello of Los Angeles Upper Cervical is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique which treats ear issues and dizzy spells. This method, distinguished within the realm of chiropractic treatments, harnesses state-of-the-art technology for greater precision in adjustments.
Employing the latest 3D diagnostic imaging technology, Dr. Bello can assess the spinal angles with extreme accuracy. This allows him to identify issues and implement adjustments with a level of precision exceeding that of traditional chiropractors reliant on 2D monochrome X-rays.
Blair technique practitioners, such as Dr. Bello, favor unique, low-pressure adjustments which are neither abrupt nor discomforting. These adjustments are not only softer and more agreeable for patients, but also exhibit a prolonged effectiveness due to the methodology used.
If persistent ear infections and inflammation, culminating in dizzy spells, are causing you distress, Dr. Bello is ready to assist. He serves a wide range of areas, including Brentwood, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, West Los Angeles, and the nearby locales.