Everyone feels lightheaded or off-balance from time to time, but when dizziness becomes frequent or severe, it may point to an underlying health issue. Dizziness can interfere with your ability to concentrate, drive, or walk safely. If these sensations last more than a few minutes or happen often, it’s time to speak with a specialist who understands both the ear and the body’s balance system.
At Virginia Ear Nose & Throat in Richmond, VA, our board-certified ENT physicians and vestibular therapists evaluate and effectively treat ENT disorders like dizziness caused by inner ear, sinus, and neurological conditions. With advanced diagnostic technology and personalized balance therapies, patients receive clear answers and effective relief.
Common Causes of Persistent Dizziness
While dizziness can come from something as simple as dehydration, it’s often linked to an inner ear or balance disorder. Understanding what’s behind your symptoms helps determine the best treatment approach. Common causes include:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): Triggered by sudden head movements, this causes spinning sensations due to displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear.
- Meniere’s disease: A chronic inner ear disorder that brings episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
- Vestibular neuritis: Inflammation of the vestibular nerve can cause prolonged dizziness and imbalance.
- Eustachian tube dysfunction: Pressure buildup behind the eardrum can make your ears feel full and throw off your equilibrium.
- Migraine-associated vertigo: Even without headache pain, migraines can disrupt inner ear function.
Because these conditions often overlap, a professional evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis.
When Dizziness Requires Medical Attention
It’s easy to brush off dizziness as stress or fatigue, but certain symptoms mean you should contact an ENT specialist right away. Schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Recurrent or prolonged dizziness lasting more than a few minutes.
- Vertigo accompanied by nausea, hearing loss, or ringing in the ears.
- Difficulty walking, standing, or maintaining balance.
- Ear pressure or pain that won’t go away.
- Sudden hearing changes or facial weakness.
These signs could point to vestibular disorders, inner ear infections, or even cardiovascular or neurological problems. Early evaluation ensures timely care and helps prevent complications like falls or permanent hearing changes.
How Virginia ENT Helps Restore Balance
Our ENT physicians and physical therapists collaborate to pinpoint the root cause of dizziness using advanced hearing and balance testing, radiographic imaging, and vestibular rehabilitation. Treatment plans may include medication, positional maneuvers, or specialized physical therapy to retrain the brain and inner ear. For patients with persistent balance issues, our Total Balance Physical Therapy Center provides individualized programs to improve stability and coordination.
Regain Your Balance with Virginia ENT
If dizziness is affecting your comfort or independence, professional care can make all the difference. The expert team at Virginia Ear Nose & Throat in Richmond, VA, offers complete diagnostic testing and treatment for vertigo and balance disorders. Call 804-484-3700 to schedule an appointment and discover effective relief through advanced dizziness and balance therapy.
