Balance Disorder Treatment Can Help Your Child Move Steadily
Though some falls are a normal part of growing up, if your child is consistently dizzy or unsteady on their feet, this might require treatment by a medical professional. At Sacramento Ear, Nose & Throat, we’ll perform diagnostic testing to determine if your child has a balance disorder and provide them with treatment.
How Do I Know If My Child Has a Balance Disorder?
Symptoms of balance disorders include:
- Frequent falls
- Unusual eye movements
- Complaints of feeling dizzy, faint or lightheaded
- Imbalance
- Delayed motor milestones
What Are Common Balance Disorders in Children?
- Vestibular neuritis: This is caused by a viral infection, which in turn leads to inflammation of the vestibular nerve.
- Labyrinthitis: This condition is vestibular neuritis with hearing loss brought on by an infection in the inner ear.
- Benign paroxysmal torticollis of infancy: This disorder, which is thought to be a migrant variant, causes children to tilt their heads to reduce feelings of dizziness. It typically begins within six months of age and goes away by five years old.
- Benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood: This condition is also thought to be related to migraines, though the specific causes are unknown. Children experience reoccurring, sometimes sudden, episodes of dizziness.
How Do We Diagnose Pediatric Balance Disorders?
Our team will work with you and your child to make balance testing a comfortable and positive experience. Typically, testing includes a physical examination and questionnaire to help us determine how the condition is affecting your child. As we move through this process, we’ll help you understand your child’s condition and the benefits of different treatment options.
How Are Balance Disorders Treated?
If it’s determined that your child needs treatment, our provider will work with your family to determine the best course of action. Possible options include:
- Medicine
- Surgery
- Physical therapy
- Balance training
- Treating hearing loss
Your Child Can Take Their Next Steps Confidently With Our Support
Balance disorders can be frustrating for children—they’re trying their best to engage with the world around them, and they might feel dizzy or fall frequently. At Sacramento Ear, Nose & Throat, we can help alleviate some of these difficulties by facilitating the treatment plan that will work best for them. Soon enough, they’ll be doing what they enjoy with minimal difficulty.