A Clear Guide to Bilateral Vestibular Failure or Hypofunction
Specialised Rehabilitation for Bilateral Vestibular Hypofunction
Chronic unsteadiness or oscillopsia in dim light? Bilateral vestibular failure is a recognised condition often linked to ageing or medications, manageable for most, not typically ominous. At Harley AVM, our team crafts effective adaptations. Seek urgent AVM care for rapid progression, severe headaches, vision loss, weakness, or swallowing issues; these high-risk symptoms demand immediate attention.
Reduced Balance Input From Both Inner Ears
An Overview of Bilateral Vestibular Failure or Hypofunction
Bilateral vestibular failure, also called bilateral vestibular hypofunction, is a balance disorder where both inner ears provide reduced or absent balance signals to the brain. Instead of sudden spinning vertigo, people often experience persistent unsteadiness, difficulty walking, and blurred vision during head movement, particularly in low light or uneven environments.
The condition develops when balance input from both sides is compromised, often due to medication toxicity, inner-ear damage, infection, or neurological causes. Because the brain receives limited vestibular information, it relies heavily on vision and muscle feedback. Symptoms can be disabling, but an accurate diagnosis is crucial, as targeted rehabilitation and management strategies can significantly improve stability and daily function.
Pinpointing the Cause
Diagnosing Bilateral Vestibular Failure or Hypofunction
When to Get Checked
You should get assessed if ongoing unsteadiness, imbalance, or blurred vision with head movement affects walking, especially in darkness or on uneven ground. Difficulty stabilising vision while moving or repeated near-falls should prompt audiovestibular review.
You should seek urgent assessment if balance problems begin suddenly, worsen rapidly, or occur with new hearing loss, neurological symptoms, weakness, numbness, or repeated falls. Early evaluation helps identify causes and ensures appropriate management and safety planning.
How We Assess Bilateral Vestibular Failure or Hypofunction
At Harley Audiovestibular Clinic, our evaluation starts with discussing your detailed history with a senior audiovestibular expert, documenting chronic unsteadiness, oscillopsia, fall risks, and potential causes like ototoxicity or ageing to confirm bilateral vestibular hypofunction. We dedicate unhurried time with our consultants, ensuring a thorough understanding of your daily challenges.
We proceed with vHIT testing, rotary chair assessments, and gait analysis to quantify vestibular loss precisely, ruling out alternatives. This expert pathway distinguishes us, enabling personalised vestibular rehabilitation plans that effectively enhance stability and independence. At Harley AVM, we prioritise your long-term confidence with compassionate, ongoing guidance.
Major Insurance Providers Accepted
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Specialist Tests to Assess Hearing, Balance and Inner Ear Health
Harley Street Specialists in Hearing, Dizziness & Balance
Specialist Care for Bilateral Vestibular Failure or Hypofunction
Every Bilateral Vestibular Failure or Hypofunction case is different. Your consultant will create a tailored plan to address your specific symptoms and lifestyle – when it started, how it affects your day, and which tests and treatments are right for you.