Doctors’ Warning! on Ear Health...Don’t Ignore These Symptoms

Many people think that the ears are used only for hearing. However, the vestibular system in the inner ear also plays an important role in maintaining the body’s balance. Signals from the inner ear help the brain understand whether we are standing, walking, bending or climbing stairs. When this system is affected, some people may experience dizziness, unsteadiness or difficulty maintaining balance. Playback singer Alka Yagnik had previously revealed that she has sensorineural hearing loss. After she was seen using a wheelchair following a Padma Awards event, there was discussion about her health. She later clarified that she was extremely tired after the long event and used the wheelchair while leaving. Therefore, her wheelchair use should not be assumed to have been caused by a balance problem related to her hearing condition.

The vestibular system is a specialized part of the inner ear that sends information about head movements and body position to the brain. The brain combines these signals with information received from the eyes, muscles and joints to help maintain posture and coordinate movement. If the vestibular system is affected by an inner-ear disorder, infection, inflammation or another condition, a person may experience dizziness, a spinning sensation known as vertigo, unsteadiness while walking or difficulty standing steadily. However, hearing loss does not automatically mean that a person will develop balance problems, because the hearing and vestibular functions can be affected independently.

Symptoms such as frequent dizziness, unsteadiness while walking, loss of balance, repeated falls, ringing in the ears or sudden hearing loss should not be ignored. Sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, inability to walk or dizziness accompanied by other neurological symptoms requires prompt medical attention. An ENT specialist may evaluate the condition and, when necessary, recommend hearing, audiology or vestibular tests to identify the underlying cause. This information is for general awareness and does not replace medical evaluation.

Note: This information is for general awareness purposes only. If you have any health related doubts or concerns, please consult a qualified doctor and follow their advice.