It is important to raise recognition about vestibular disorders to understand what they are and just how they affect those close to us. The vestibular system consists of the parts of the body that process the important information regarding balance and eye movements. Vestibular disorders are often caused by a disease or an injury to the inner ear and brain. This causes those areas to not properly process sensory information. This leaves patients feeling unstable and overwhelmed, among other things.
Related Blog: What's Causing your Balance Issues and Dizziness?
Listed below are some facts about Vestibular Disorders:
Fact 1: 69 million Americans, which make up 35% of the population, in the age bracket of 40 years and older have experienced a vestibular dysfunction at one time or another in their lives.
Fact 2: There are many causes of vestibular disorders (some are even unexplained) and the results come in the form of memory loss, poor concentration, feelings of constantly falling, and other symptoms.
Fact 3: Vestibular disorders are defined as invisible chronic illnesses, and because of this they become difficult to diagnose. This illness is tough on the patient as well as on their families.
Fact 4: Taking part in low-impact activities and exercises, such as yoga, can help to improve personal balance and stability. There are medications and physical therapies that patients can utilize to manage this disease.
Facts 5: Interestingly, new research on the vestibular system came about year ago when NASA began to study astronauts as they returned from space.
Vestibular disorders are more common than we realize and they affect not only the patient, but their families. By raising awareness, early diagnosis can help families and patients feel safe and secure.
