Vertigo & Balance Disorders

Vertigo & Balance Disorders – Assessment & Management

Dizziness and balance problems can make walking, standing, travelling, or performing everyday activities difficult. Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are moving or spinning, even when there is no actual movement. These symptoms can have several causes, including disorders affecting the inner ear and balance system. Dr. Titiksha K. Bisure has specialised training in the assessment and management of vertigo and balance disorders.

Common Symptoms & Conditions

Patients may experience:

• Vertigo: A spinning or movement sensation that may occur in episodes or persist.

• Dizziness: A feeling of light-headedness, unsteadiness, or disorientation.

• Balance Difficulties: Problems maintaining stability while standing or walking.

• Positional Vertigo: Brief episodes of spinning triggered by specific head movements, which may occur in conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

• Associated Ear Symptoms: Some balance disorders may occur alongside hearing changes, tinnitus, or a feeling of fullness in the ear.

Not every episode of dizziness is caused by an inner ear condition. Careful assessment is important to identify possible causes and determine the appropriate next steps.

Vertigo & Balance Assessment

The evaluation begins with a review of when symptoms started, how long they last, what triggers them, and whether other symptoms occur at the same time.

Depending on the clinical presentation, assessment may include:

• Review of dizziness and vertigo episodes.

• Assessment of positional triggers and balance symptoms.

• Examination of the ears and relevant neurological signs.

• Hearing evaluation when indicated.

• Positional testing for suspected BPPV.

• Further investigation or referral when the symptoms suggest another cause.

Treatment & Management Options

Treatment depends on the cause of the symptoms and the patient’s individual needs. Options may include:

• Medical Management: Medication when clinically appropriate.

• Positional Manoeuvres: Specific movements performed by a trained clinician for suitable cases of BPPV.

• Balance Rehabilitation: Exercises or rehabilitation referrals when indicated.

• Management of Associated Ear Conditions: Evaluation and treatment of relevant ENT problems.

• Follow-Up Assessment: Review of symptoms and response to the treatment plan.

Medication is not necessary for every type of vertigo, and treatment should be selected after appropriate evaluation.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Consult an ENT specialist for recurrent vertigo, persistent dizziness, or balance problems that interfere with daily activities. Avoid driving or operating machinery during episodes that affect your balance or alertness.

Sudden dizziness accompanied by weakness, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, double vision, inability to walk, a severe unusual headache, or other new neurological symptoms requires emergency assessment. Sudden hearing loss also requires urgent medical evaluation.

Individualised Vertigo Care

Dr. Titiksha K. Bisure’s training in vertigo and balance assessment supports a focused approach to evaluating these symptoms. Understanding the underlying cause helps guide suitable management and follow-up, with the aim of improving safety, confidence, and daily functioning.