$Unique_ID{BRK01100}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is There a Vestibular Malfunction Disease?}
$Subject{ears balance imbalance sense senses ill defined symptom symptoms
vestibular paralysis bilateral inner ear staggering walking zigzag direction
depth hearing loss}
$Volume{F-21,N-21}
$Log{
Vertigo--Vestibular Apparatus Disorientation*0007502.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There a Vestibular Malfunction Disease?


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QUESTION:  My question is in your "unusual diseases to research" department.
Is there a disease or condition that is spoken of as vestibular malfunction?
Some of the symptoms have to do with mental confusion regarding directions,
and others.  Please tell me anything you can.

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ANSWER:  It is listed as "vestibular paralysis, bilateral" in my book, and
results from an infectious process in the vestibular system, which is
responsible for maintaining our equilibrium.  The vestibular system is made up
of the three semicircular canals located in the inner ear, nerves leading to
the brain, and a center in the brain that controls our balance.  In order for
this condition to appear, this apparatus must be affected on both sides, as
the other side might compensate for the loss if but one side was infected.
The symptoms and signs are varied, from staggering and walking in a zigzag
pattern to the loss of one's sense of direction.  Interestingly, these
patients have no sense of depth with their eyes closed, and rapidly become
disoriented in the water, making swimming a dangerous activity.  They also
have more difficulty with their orientation after dark.  A loss of hearing is
often associated with this condition, which can take many unusual forms, all
reflecting their inability to sense direction.  The treatment depends upon
detecting and identifying the exact agent of infection.  This may be done with
bacterial cultures, or attempting to identify the antibodies produced by the
infection.  Once the infecting organism is discovered, antibiotics are used to
combat the infection.  In some cases this is a difficult and prolonged
therapy.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.