Dizziness can affect any age group, from babies to the oldest individuals, explains Dr. Tusa. It may come from a variety of causes, including eye movement disorders, diseases of the inner ear and migraines. Accurate diagnosis of the root cause of the dizziness is key to effective treatment. The Center for Dizziness and Balance uses a multidisciplinary approach which includes neurology, ophthalmology, physical therapy and dietetics, as needed, in both diagnosis and treatment. Specialized equipment is utilized to track the movements of the eyes, the position of the body as patients stand erect and to provide other key information that aids in proper diagnosis.
Treatment varies according to the diagnosis.
In BPPV crystals which have formed in the inner ear, either over time or due to head trauma, break free. As they float, certain head movements will then induce vertigo. If a patient has been diagnosed as having BPPV, her or she can be treated in the office, often with immediate results. Dizziness and balance problems are often misdiagnosed or overlooked entirely by doctors, explains Dr. Tusa. Rather than receiving medication, patients in the Center for Dizziness and Balance are more often treated with a customized program of physical therapy and, if needed, diet and lifestyle modifications.