Did you know? Your hearing and balance are linked. Equilibrium or balance is controlled by the body’s vestibular system, involving parts of the body such as the brain, eyes, inner-ear structures, skin, muscles, and more. The vestibular system helps keep you upright, coordinate movement, perceive motion, and control posture. It also works with crucial functions such as vision to help you make sense of your surroundings.
Balance Difficulties – What does that look like?
Symptoms of a vestibular disorder can vary per person. Some complaints may include dizziness; falling; vertigo; disequilibrium; spatial disorientation; hearing problems; tinnitus; or difficulty seeing. Research also links vestibular dysfunction to cognitive problems, such as trouble paying attention or remembering things.
Links Between Hearing & Balance
Because the vestibular system includes parts of the inner ear — for example, semicircular canals that aid in maintaining balance and detecting rotational head movement — it’s no wonder that the ears could affect both your hearing and equilibrium. Hearing loss may also hinder crucial cues the ears receive and use to aid in balance. A critical public-health issue associated with hearing loss and balance? Falls. Among older adults, for example, researchers in a 2023-published study noted a 2.4 times higher risk of falls when hearing loss is in the picture. An unrelated investigation released in 2012 involving adults aged 40 to 69 found that even mild hearing loss could mean a tripled risk of falling.
Taking Charge of Your Balance
The good news? Prioritizing your hearing health this year may also help you stay steady on your feet. A growing body of research connects improved hearing to a lower risk of falls. One investigation ties the use of hearing aids to a 13% reduced risk of fall-related injuries among older adults, reinforcing the technology’s potential dual benefits for hearing and safety. And the 2023-released study mentioned earlier found a 50% reduced risk of falling among hearing-aid wearers.
Anyone who continues to experience balance difficulties, dizziness, or having difficulty hearing, should visit a certified audiologist for a hearing evaluation. I encourage you to schedule an audiological evaluation with Hearing Associates of South Carolina. Advocate for yourself and others around you towards better hearing and establish a baseline of hearing today!
