Autoimmune Disorders and Vestibular Disturbances
Autoimmune Disorders and Vestibular Disturbances
There are many critical functions to the inner ear; more than one would expect. The inner ear also called the vestibule, is responsible for a wide variety of important functions in the human body. In addition to hearing, the inner ear is also responsible for maintaining a sense of balance in the body. And as the inner ear is a complex and sensitive area, there are many potential conditions that can cause the ear vestibule to function improperly. Contact Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington Station, NY today for more information.
Like the rest of the body, the ear vestibule requires protection from foreign invaders to stay functioning and free of infection. The body’s immune system is responsible for protecting the inner ear, and the rest of the body alike. The immune system attacks any tissue it does not recognize as native, in order to keep the body safe. However, there are some conditions in which the immune system makes a mistake and attacks the body. These are known as autoimmune disorders. While most vestibular conditions are not related to autoimmune disorders, they are not unheard of. Appropriately named, the most common type is known as Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease or AIED. This is usually defined as a type of hearing loss caused by the immune system attacking the inner ear. Along with hearing loss, symptoms can include loss of balance, feelings of dizziness, and ringing sounds in the ear. Typically, only one ear will initially be affected. Eventually, the second ear may experience symptoms ay well.
One of the most common symptoms of vestibular disturbances is the inability to feel balanced. Through a variety of exercises techniques, a physical therapist can help patients restore and maintain balance lost from vestibular conditions. The experts at Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington Station, NY can help patients with vestibular conditions, as well as all physical therapy needs. With seven convenient locations around Nassau and Suffolk counties, ISPT can help you get back in balance.
