Hearing & Balance: How They're Connected
Hearing and balance problems are often interrelated conditions. Part of the inner ear interacts with other body systems like the eyes, nervous system, muscles, and joints of the body to process hearing and maintain balance.
Hearing
Prevalence of Hearing Loss
- Approximately
48 million Americans
have some degree of hearing loss.
- An estimated
50 million Americans
experience
tinnitus
(ringing in the ears).
- Hearing loss is the
third most reported health concern
in the U.S., following arthritis and heart disease.
Hearing loss can affect people of all ages and may cause social and emotional concerns. It is largely influenced by
age
and
noise exposure.
Early Detection
Hearing loss is generally a progressive condition that worsens over time. Symptoms appear gradually, and it may take individuals an average of 7 years to seek help. Family and friends are often the first to notice.
To find out if you are experiencing hearing loss, take our
3-minute online hearing screener and begin your journey toward better hearing health.
Common Signs of Hearing Loss
Frequently needing repetition or feeling like others are mumbling
Difficulty following conversations in background noise
Increasing TV or music volume more than others prefer
Experiencing ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
Early treatment is most effective. If you suspect hearing loss, please call 321-632-6900 to schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists.
Balance
Understanding Balance Disorders
Problems within the vestibular system (part of the inner ear) can cause balance issues, affecting over 2 million people annually. These disorders can cause:
- Unsteadiness
- Wooziness
- Sensations of spinning, moving, or floating
Common Balance Disorders
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) – Vertigo after head position changes
- Labyrinthitis – Dizziness from inner ear infection or inflammation
- Meniere’s Disease – Vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus from fluid imbalance
- Vestibular Neuronitis – Vestibular nerve infection
Treatment for Balance Conditions
Physical Therapy
Lifestyle Modifications
Medications
Surgery (in some cases)
If you are experiencing dizziness, contact our office at 321-632-6900 to schedule an appointment.
What Is an Audiologist?
Audiologists are healthcare providers who identify, address, and manage hearing and tinnitus disorders. They evaluate patients of all ages, from infants to older adults.
Duties of an Audiologist
- Fitting and dispensing hearing aids and listening devices
- Preventing hearing loss through education and proper hearing protection
- Assessing and treating vestibular (balance) problems
Education & Certification
- Minimum of a Master’s Degree in Audiology (many hold a Doctorate in Audiology - Au.D.)
- Completion of fellowships and externships
- Must pass clinical boards and hold a state license
Certifications often include:
- American Academy of Audiology (AAA)
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- State-level organizations
Take Action for Better Hearing & Balance
Don't wait to address hearing and balance problems. Early treatment provides better outcomes and prevents complications that can significantly impact your quality of life.