Menu
Vertigo is a common medical complaint characterized by a sensation of spinning, dizziness, or unsteadiness, even when a person is not moving. Vertigo is often associated with inner ear disorders, which can lead to hearing loss.
This blog post will explore the significant connection between vertigo and hearing loss and discuss the possible underlying conditions that can lead to these symptoms. Understanding this connection is essential, as it can help you seek appropriate hearing tests and treatment.
Before delving into the connection between vertigo and hearing loss, it is crucial to understand the inner ear’s role in balance and hearing.
The inner ear comprises two main structures: the cochlea, important for hearing, and the vestibular system, responsible for balance.
The cochlea transforms sound waves into nerve signals, which are then relayed to the brain for interpretation. On the other hand, the vestibular system comprises three semicircular canals and two sacs (the utricle and the saccule), which work collectively to detect changes in head position and movement, enabling the body to maintain balance.
When the inner ear functions appropriately, the vestibular system sends accurate information about head position and movement to the brain, resulting in a stable sense of balance. However, when there is damage or dysfunction in the inner ear, the brain may receive inaccurate or conflicting information, leading to vertigo and other balance problems.
Several inner ear disorders can cause both vertigo and hearing loss. Some of the most common conditions include:
Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that influences the vestibular system and the cochlea. The exact cause of Meniere’s disease remains unidentified, but it is considered to be related to an abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear.
This fluid buildup can cause pressure on the subtle structures of the inner ear, leading to vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a sense of fullness or pressure in the affected ear. In many cases, hearing loss in Meniere’s disease is progressive, eventually leading to permanent damage to the cochlea.
Labyrinthitis is an inner ear inflammation usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. This inflammation can disrupt the normal functioning of the vestibular system and the cochlea, resulting in vertigo and hearing loss.
Labyrinthitis is usually temporary, and symptoms improve as the inflammation subsides. However, in some cases, labyrinthitis can cause permanent damage to the inner ear, leading to long-term balance problems and hearing loss.
BPPV is a common cause of vertigo, characterized by sudden, brief episodes of dizziness triggered by changes in head position. BPPV is caused by the dislodgement of tiny calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear, which can hinder the normal functioning of the vestibular system.
Although BPPV does not typically cause hearing loss, it can sometimes be associated with other inner ear disorders contributing to hearing impairment, such as Meniere’s disease or labyrinthitis.
An acoustic neuroma is a rare, benign tumour that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. As the tumour grows, it can compress the nerve and disrupt the transmission of balance and hearing information to the brain. This can result in vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
In some cases, surgical removal of the tumour can help alleviate symptoms, but there is a risk of permanent hearing loss and balance problems following surgery.
The significant connection between vertigo and hearing loss highlights the importance of seeking prompt medical evaluation if experiencing these symptoms. Proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition can help to alleviate symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. If you wonder if you have an inner ear disorder, consult with a healthcare professional, such as an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, to determine the best hearing test and treatment for your situation.
Beltone Hearing Centre, located in Langley and Abbotsford, is a top-notch healthcare partner offering an unparalleled approach to hearing care. Our commitment to providing high-quality hearing solutions and fostering a solid relationship with our patients sets us apart from other hearing care providers. If you are seeking a trusted healthcare partner for hearing tests in Abbotsford, reach out to us and experience the difference between a truly patient-centred approach to hearing care.