neurovestibulära

Neurovestibular refers to the intricate system within the body responsible for balance and spatial orientation. This complex network involves the inner ear, specifically the vestibular apparatus, and its connections to the central nervous system, including the brainstem and cerebellum. The vestibular system comprises two main components: the semicircular canals, which detect rotational movements of the head, and the otolith organs (utricle and saccule), which sense linear acceleration and the pull of gravity.

Information gathered by these sensory organs is transmitted via the vestibular nerve to the brain. Here, it is processed and integrated with input from other sensory systems, such as vision and proprioception (the sense of body position). This integration allows for the generation of compensatory eye movements (vestibulo-ocular reflex) that stabilize vision during head movements and for postural adjustments that maintain balance.

Dysfunction within the neurovestibular system can lead to a variety of symptoms, commonly referred to as vestibular disorders. These can include dizziness, vertigo (a sensation of spinning), imbalance, nausea, and nystagmus (involuntary eye movements). Causes of neurovestibular dysfunction are diverse and can range from inner ear infections and Meniere's disease to head injuries and neurological conditions affecting the brain. Diagnosis often involves clinical examination, specialized vestibular testing, and sometimes imaging studies. Management strategies vary depending on the underlying cause and can include medication, vestibular rehabilitation therapy, and lifestyle modifications.