Inner ear tests

@ryman I have had several inner ear tests for dizziness/balance problems. There are a variety of different tests. Here is a Mayo website that describes some of these tests used to diagnose dizziness: http://mayocl.in/2qqMcju. I have personally had the Eye movement testing and the Posturography as well as a few more. When you get these tests scheduled let us know if you have any questions. Teresa

Thank you. I will check out the i am always anxious about tests.

@ryman That is understandable, most of us become anxious about tests. Once you complete the tests, your doctor will have a better picture of what to rule out and what might be causing your problems. Keep in touch and let us know if you have any other questions or concerns. Terea

My husband has significant balance issues due to inner ear damage. He has had all the tests but it has been several years ago. Is there anything new out there now that can help? Maybe stem cells? He doesn't have dizziness. He just has balance issues.

Hello @eflood I am sorry to hear of your husband's inner ear damage and balance issues. Balance issues make life difficult and can result in falls and injuries. You said that he had all the tests several years ago. Was a diagnosis made as a result of those tests and was a treatment plan put in place? Regarding treatment, I'm thinking about physical therapy, vestibular therapy, etc. Also, is there any corrective treatments for the inner ear damage? Depending on the amount of time that has passed since his last evaluation, it might be good to get a reevaluation and a second opinion now, perhaps at a large medical center where their expertise might be greater than that of a regular ENT. Also, has he seen a neurologist regarding the balance issues?

I would encourage you to get a second opinion. There are Mayo Clinics in Minnesota, Florida and Arizona. If you are not able to travel to those facilities a large medical school might be helpful as well. In the meantime, here is a Mayo Clinic website that talks about inner ear and balance issues http://mayocl.in/2t6lmi9.

Please continue to share with us as you are comfortable. We are hear to be a "listening ear" and we hope that your husband is able to find some relief. Teresa

Thank you for your quick response.  Years ago after he went through all the tests (maybe 10 years ago), the doctor told him the only thing he could do is physical therapy which amounted to some exercises that retrained his brain for balance.  Basically, his balance is his eyes.  Walking around in the dark is very difficult for him.  The doctor we went to was at UT Southwest in Dallas.  We have discussed going back to her, but we are in Florida most of the time now.  So perhaps we should set up an appointment with some one at Mayo Clinic here in Florida.  Do you have a suggestion?  I will check out the website you gave me too.  

I still have not been called to schedule the inner ear tests. I guess I will have to check with the neurologist.

Hello @ryman Putting in a call to the doctor's office sounds like a good idea. Being proactive regarding your health care is a good policy! Keep in touch with us. Teresa

@eflood Thanks for your post. I have Parkinson's and I have balance problems as well - walking in the dark (or closing my eyes) is definitively not something that I do. I don't know anyone personally at Mayo Clinic in Florida, but if you call them and explain your husband's problem they will undoubtedly put you in contact with the right specialist. Here is the contact info for Mayo Clinic in Florida, 904-953-0853; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday. Best wishes to you both and please keep in touch with us. Teresa

Hi @eflood,

I found this article on Mayo Clinic's News Network, about inner ear problems, which I thought might interest you:
http://mayocl.in/2rXzXgD
And here is more information from Mayo Clinic about the various treatment options available, including stereotactic radio surgery: http://mayocl.in/2rMPMrU

@eflood, has your husband mad any significant changes to his diet, to help ease the symptoms?