Balance nerve damage on both sides (bilateral vestibulopathy)

Overview

Both inner ears lose balance function, so people rely on vision and touch.

Some antibiotics like gentamicin are a known cause.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Unsteady in the dark

Less common

• Blurry vision when walking

Look up a symptom: Dizziness

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerve damage.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Gentamicin use
• People who took gentamicin: A common cause

Possible complications

• Falls and fall risk: Balance is worse in the dark

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Balance tests:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Vestibular rehab
• Night lights

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Ask about inner ear risks with some antibiotics

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older adults: Higher fall risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Rehab improves balance.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Balance nerve damage on both sides (bilateral vestibulopathy)