DORSET DIZZY CLINIC
Conditions we treat
Inner Ear
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo. It occurs when tiny calcium crystals become dislodged and move into the semi-circular canals of the inner ear, sending false "spinning" signals to your brain.
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Common Symptoms: Brief, intense bursts of spinning triggered by tilting your head, lying down, or rolling over in bed.
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Our Approach: After testing to determine which canal is involved and the type of BPPV present, the relevant repositioning manouvre will be conducted. Not all BPPV can be treated with the Epley Manouvre. At Dorset Dizzy Clinic we have the advanced skills to be able to offer a repertoire of manouvres that consider the type of BPPV and your physical ability.
Vestibular Neuritis and Labyrinthitis
These conditions involve inflammation of the nerves in the inner ear, usually following a viral infection (like a cold or flu).
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Common Symptoms: Sudden, severe vertigo that can last for days, often with nausea and imbalance. Labyrinthitis also includes hearing loss or tinnitus.
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Our Approach: Once the initial infection subsides, we use Vestibular Rehabilitation to "re-calibrate" your brain and restore your steady gaze and balance.
Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)
A vestibular schwannoma is a benign (non-cancerous), slow-growing tumor on the balance nerve.
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Common Symptoms: Gradual hearing loss in one ear, tinnitus, and persistent unsteadiness.
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Our Approach: Whether you are in a "watch and wait" phase or recovering from surgery/radiation, we provide targeted exercises to manage imbalance and help your brain compensate for neural changes.
Ménière’s Disease
This is a chronic condition related to abnormal fluid pressure within the inner ear.
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Common Symptoms: Spontaneous "attacks" of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.
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Our Approach: We work alongside your medical treatment to help you manage the intervals between attacks, improving your confidence and balance during your "good days."
Bilateral Vestibular Hypofunction (BvH)
BvH occurs when the balance organs on both sides of the inner ear are underactive. This can be caused by certain medications, infections, or age-related changes.
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Common Symptoms: Significant instability while walking (especially in the dark or on uneven ground) and "jumpy" vision when moving your head.
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Our Approach: Treatment focuses on intensive balance retraining and "substitution" strategies to help your eyes and muscles take over the work the inner ears can no longer do.