October 17, 2018
There is exciting new research into balance issues such as vertigo and chronic dizziness. If you suffer from any kind of balance disorder, you probably already know that these issues can stem from fluid levels in your inner ear. This new research is exploring the possibility that balance disorders could be spotted and maybe even alleviated with MRI magnets!
At Johns Hopkins in 2011, researchers discovered something: inner ear fluid is influenced by the magnetic field of an MRI. Since we have already known for a while that vertigo and other balance disorders can be caused by buildup of fluid in the inner ear, they looked at MRI magnets as a way to potentially treat those conditions.
MRI magnets can exert a pulling force on the inner ear fluid, and researchers hope that they may be able to manipulate inner ear fluids to relieve the problems caused by inner ear issues.
As it stands, uncomfortable and invasive testing protocols are necessary to diagnose and treat imbalance and dizziness conditions such as vertigo. This makes the painless MRI procedure a welcome development for future diagnosis and care.
The Inner Ear and Balance
Approximately 40% of adults experience episodes of imbalance and dizziness at least once during a lifetime. Sufferers may complain of feelings of vertigo and spinning or dizziness. These episodes may also cause people to feel faint or lightheaded and they may become disoriented, confused, or have blurred vision.
When you see an audiologist or specialist, testing may include:
A hearing test may also be part of the visit to your audiologist, to make sure there is no hearing impairment that accompanies the dizziness.
If you have had several dizzy spells or have felt unbalanced, see your general practitioner or audiologist pinpoint the cause.
Here at California Hearing Center we are committed to your hearing health. Call us today to set up an appointment for a hearing screening.
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San Mateo
88 N. San Mateo Drive
San Mateo, California, 94401
Phone: (650) 342-9449
Fax: (650) 342-4435
Email: info@calhearing.com
San Carlos
1008 Laurel Street
San Carlos, California, 94070
Phone: (650) 342-9449
Fax: (650) 342-4435
Email: info@calhearing.com