Comprehensive Balance Evaluations
What are the signs & symptoms of a balance disorder?
Balance disorders can manifest in various ways, often leading to discomfort and difficulty in performing daily activities. Common symptoms of balance disorders include:
- Dizziness or Vertigo: A spinning sensation or feeling lightheaded.
- Unsteadiness: Feeling off-balance, as though you might fall.
- Frequent Falls: Experiencing a higher frequency of stumbling or falling.
- Blurry Vision: Vision problems, especially when moving your head.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Motion sickness or a queasy feeling.
- Hearing Changes: Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or hearing loss may accompany balance issues.
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek professional evaluation and treatment.
How do you treat balance disorders?
At Beach Audiology, we offer expert evaluation and personalized treatment plans for balance disorders. Our approach to treatment may include:
- Diagnostic Testing: Utilizing advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of your balance issues.
- Balance Rehabilitation: Customized exercises and therapies to improve balance and reduce symptoms.
- Medication Management: When appropriate, prescribing medications to alleviate dizziness or vertigo.
- Hearing Evaluation: Assessing your hearing health to address any related issues.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Recommending changes in daily activities and habits to enhance your balance and safety.
Our goal is to help you regain your balance and improve your quality of life.
What to expect at your appointment
Do's and Don'ts Prior to Your Appointment
Do
- Bring Personal ID and Prepare Medical History: Bring a list of your medical history, including medications, previous diagnoses, and any recent incidents or changes related to your balance as well as your ID and any insurance you would like to use.
- Bring a List of Symptoms: Describe your symptoms in detail, including when they started, their frequency, and any triggers or patterns you've noticed.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Dress comfortably, as you may undergo balance tests that involve movement.
- Take VITAL Medications: Vital medications should not be stopped prior to your appointment. If you are unsure about discontinuing any of your medications, please call your physician and determine if you can stop taking any of your medications for a period of 48 hours before your appointment. HOWEVER please refrain from taking the following medications for up to 48 hours before your appointment as they can interfere with testing: Anti-vertigo medications such as Anti-vert, Ru-vert, or Meclizine; Anti-nausea medications such as Atarax, Dramamine, Compazine, Antiver, Bucladin Phenergan, Thorazine, Scopalomine, and Transdermal.
- Arrive on Time: Please arrive a few minutes early for your appointment to complete any necessary paperwork.
Don't
- Drive Alone: If you're experiencing severe dizziness or vertigo, it's advisable not to drive yourself to the appointment. Arrange for a reliable mode of transportation.
- Skip Meals: Eat a light meal before your appointment to prevent low blood sugar, which can contribute to dizziness.
- Avoid Hydration: Dehydration can exacerbate balance issues, so drink plenty of water before your visit.
- Neglect to Mention Concerns: Be open and honest about your symptoms and concerns with Dr. Wigand. Accurate information helps in the diagnostic process.
Contact Us Today
Your Hearing and Balance Health Matters!
Your inner ear health is critical to your overall well-being.
Don't wait any longer to address your needs and concerns. Rediscover a world of sound, self-confidence, and meaningful connections by scheduling your comprehensive evaluation with us today. We are here to support you on your journey to improved hearing, balance, and a better quality of life.
Call or text us to book your appointment, and let's start your path to better hearing and balance together. We look forward to serving you at Beach Audiology Hearing & Balance Center in Myrtle Beach, SC.