Vestibular and Balance Evaluations in McAllen TX

Balance, Our Inner Ear, and Fall Risk

Did you know that your hearing and balance organs are the same? It’s true that our inner ear is crucial in both development and current quality of life because it’s home to our balance (vestibular) organs.

Issues with our inner ear can be directly linked to vertigo (spinning sensation), dizziness, nausea, and unsteady gait. This can interfere with daily activities such as turning in bed, walking, bending down, etc., making it a high risk for falls and injury.

In fact, the CDC reports over 14 million falls in older adults every year—that’s 1 in 4 adults. Falls can lead to serious injuries, resulting in emergency visits annually in the U.S. alone.

Common Causes for Dizziness and Balance Issues

Dizziness can be a symptom of a number of things. Our job at Better Hearing Clinic is to help you get to the root by evaluating your inner ear and determining whether it is the primary cause of your balance issues. If we determine that your inner ear is not, we will send you to the next best place!

Common Causes include, but are not limited to:

• Inner ear disorders
  • Displaced inner ear crystals (BPPV)
  • Meniere’s Disease
  • Labyrinthitis
  • Vestibular Neuritis
  • Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence
• Other common sources of dizziness
  • Vision issues
  • Medications
  • Joint or bone issues
  • Heart or circulatory issues
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries/Concussions
  • Neurological issues (Brain or Nerve Disorders)
  • Hormonal Issues
  • Allergies

What to Expect at Your Balance Test

1. After scheduling your appointment, our staff will provide you with an informational packet where you will find the Do’s and Dont’s before testing. In your packet, you will also find your case history form. Please ensure that it is filled out and brought with you on the day of your test.
2. Please dress in comfortable clothing as you may need to be placed in different positions during testing.
3. Avoid the use of facial creams, makeup, and mascara on the day of your test.
4. Please refrain from drinking alcohol or caffeine at least 48 hours before the test.
5. Please arrive at the clinic at least 15 minutes before your appointments. This examination can be timely; therefore, arriving after the scheduled time may result in your examination being rescheduled.
6. The assessment will take roughly 2 hours to complete, depending on patient factors.
7. Testing will be conducted by placing sensors that will aid in evaluating different parts of your inner ear. This will be followed by monitoring your eyes with the use of special goggles that read and record your eye movement when responding to movement and stimuli.
8. It is possible that you may feel slightly dizzy during and post-examination; however, this usually resolves quickly. You are encouraged to bring a family member or friend to aid in transportation or wait in our lobby until symptoms subside.

What to Expect Post-Examination

The testing conducted on your examination is useful for a number of physicians, including neurologists, cardiologists, ENTs, etc.

Once our testing is completed, we will analyze and determine whether the cause of your dizziness is due to your inner ear.

If we find that the cause of your dizziness is due to displaced crystals in the ear, we will schedule you for a treatment appointment.

Evidence of other issues may also be noted on your examination and we will aid you in the next best steps toward attaining a diagnosis.

Other healthcare providers can also use the information gained through this testing to gain valuable insight into symptoms and get you one step closer to the root of your issues.

Our mission at Better Hearing Clinic is to provide compassionate, personalized care to support your hearing and equilibrium health. We understand that balance concerns can be both challenging and frustrating, and we are here to help.

We specialize in comprehensive balance assessments, designed to help identify the underlying causes of your balance issues.

Our goal is to provide you with clear insights regarding your condition.

Vestibular and Balance Evaluations FAQs

What is the vestibular system?

The vestibular system is the sensory system in your inner ear that provides your brain with information about motion, equilibrium, and spatial orientation. It works alongside your visual system and proprioception (awareness of body position) to maintain balance.

How long does a balance evaluation take?

A comprehensive vestibular evaluation typically takes between 60-90 minutes, depending on the specific tests needed for your condition.

Will my insurance cover vestibular testing?

Many insurance plans cover vestibular evaluations when medically necessary. Our office staff can help verify your coverage before your appointment.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit will include a detailed discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and a series of non-invasive tests to evaluate your balance system. Our audiologists will explain each step of the process to ensure your comfort.

Can balance disorders be treated?

Yes, many balance disorders can be effectively managed or treated. Treatment options may include vestibular rehabilitation therapy, lifestyle modifications, medication, or in some cases, referral to a specialist for additional treatment.