tasakaaluhäireteni

Tasakaaluhäire is the Estonian term for balance disorder. It refers to a condition that causes a feeling of unsteadiness, dizziness, or vertigo. This can affect a person's ability to walk, stand, or even perform everyday tasks. The sensation can range from a mild sense of imbalance to severe, disabling vertigo.

Balance disorders can stem from various causes. The inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, and problems within this system, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's disease, or labyrinthitis, are common culprits. However, issues with the brain, such as stroke, head injury, or neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, can also lead to balance problems. Furthermore, vision problems, certain medications, and even anxiety can contribute to a feeling of imbalance.

Symptoms associated with tasakaaluhäire can vary widely depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include dizziness, a spinning sensation (vertigo), unsteadiness, lightheadedness, and a feeling of rocking or swaying. Some individuals may also experience nausea, vomiting, headaches, or nystagmus (involuntary eye movements).

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, a physical examination, and potentially specialized tests. These tests might include audiology evaluations, vestibular function tests to assess the inner ear's balance system, and imaging studies like MRI or CT scans if a neurological cause is suspected.

Treatment for tasakaaluhäire depends entirely on the identified cause. For inner ear issues, specific maneuvers like the Epley maneuver for BPPV may be effective. Medications can be prescribed to manage symptoms like nausea or vertigo. In cases where neurological conditions are involved, treatment focuses on managing the underlying disease. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, a type of physical therapy, is often recommended to help individuals retrain their balance systems and improve their stability.