Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Difficulty balancing
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Difficulty balancing?
Difficulty balancing refers to feeling unsteady or having trouble maintaining your position, especially when standing or walking. This can make daily activities like walking, getting up from a seated position, or climbing stairs feel more challenging. Understanding the cause of balance issues is key to regaining stability and taking control of your health.
Symptoms of Difficulty balancing
If you're experiencing difficulty balancing, you may notice:
- Feeling unsteady or dizzy when standing up or walking
- Frequently losing your balance, especially when turning or walking on uneven surfaces
- A sensation of spinning or dizziness (vertigo)
- Falling or near-falling, even in familiar spaces
What causes Difficulty balancing?
There are several potential causes for difficulty balancing:
- Inner ear problems: Conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or Meniere's disease affect the inner ear, which is responsible for balance.
- Neurological conditions: Disorders such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke can affect your nervous system and impair balance.
- Low blood pressure: A sudden drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension) when standing can cause dizziness and balance issues.
- Vitamin deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12, can affect nerve function and balance.
- Age-related changes: As you age, your sense of balance may naturally decline, and you may be at higher risk for falls.
Risk factors for Difficulty balancing
You may be at a higher risk of balance issues if:
- You are over 65 years old
- You have a history of ear infections or inner ear conditions
- You suffer from neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease or stroke
- You experience frequent dizziness or low blood pressure
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How is Difficulty balancing diagnosed?
To diagnose difficulty balancing, an eye, ear, and neurological exam will be conducted. Tests may include:
- A physical exam to assess your strength and coordination
- Hearing tests to check for inner ear problems
- Balance tests, such as the Romberg test, to evaluate your stability
- Blood tests to check for any underlying conditions, like vitamin deficiencies or blood pressure issues
How is Difficulty balancing treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your balance issues:
- Physical therapy: Balance exercises and strength training can help improve stability and prevent falls.
- Medications: If the cause is related to a condition like vertigo or low blood pressure, medications may help manage symptoms.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Simple changes, such as avoiding sudden position changes and improving lighting at home, can reduce fall risk.
- Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgery may be required for conditions like Meniere's disease or a vestibular disorder.
Medications for Difficulty balancing
There are no specific medications for balance problems, but certain medications can help manage underlying conditions, such as vertigo or dizziness. NiHowdy can help you save on medications used for conditions like low blood pressure or neurological issues, making your treatments more affordable.
Can Difficulty balancing be prevented?
While some causes of balance issues can't be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:
- Exercising regularly to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
- Managing medical conditions like blood pressure and diabetes
- Getting regular eye and ear exams to detect any problems early
- Improving home safety by removing tripping hazards and installing grab bars
Managing Difficulty balancing at home
You can improve your balance at home by:
- Practicing balance exercises (such as standing on one foot or walking heel-to-toe)
- Using assistive devices like canes or walkers if recommended by your healthcare provider
- Maintaining a healthy diet with enough nutrients, including vitamin B12, to support nerve function
- Ensuring your home is safe by eliminating obstacles and using non-slip mats
When should you seek help for Difficulty balancing?
You should seek professional help if:
- Your balance problems are sudden or worsen over time
- You experience frequent falls or a sensation of spinning (vertigo)
- You have difficulty walking or maintaining posture
- You notice other symptoms like numbness or tingling in your limbs
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How NiHowdy helps with Difficulty balancing
NiHowdy can help you save on medications for conditions that contribute to balance problems, such as blood pressure medications or treatments for neurological conditions. With NiHowdy, you can manage your health affordably while earning Bitcoin rebates on your prescriptions.
Success stories with Difficulty balancing
Thalia had been struggling with balance issues related to her low blood pressure. After using NiHowdy, she saved on her medications and was able to manage her blood pressure more effectively. As a result, her balance improved, and she felt more confident walking and navigating her home.
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