Dizziness and Ringing in Your Ears
When your balance or hearing feels “off”
Your ears do more than hear – they also help you stay balanced. If you’ve noticed dizziness, unsteadiness, or persistent ringing in your ears, it may indicate an inner-ear or auditory system concern. These symptoms can range from mild annoyance to significant disruption of daily life.
Understanding tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound – often described as ringing, buzzing, or humming – without an external source. It can be temporary or chronic, and it often accompanies hearing loss. Common causes include prolonged noise exposure, ear infections, medication side effects, or circulatory changes.
While tinnitus itself may not be curable, it can be managed successfully. Hearing Associates offers multiple approaches:
- Hearing aids: Amplify outside sound and reduce contrast with tinnitus.
- Sound masking devices: Reduce the perception of tinnitus through low level sound stimulation.
- Counseling and relaxation techniques: Help you reframe your response and lower stress, which can make symptoms worse.
- Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT): Combines sound therapy with guided counseling to retrain how your brain perceives tinnitus.
Dizziness and balance issues
The inner ear’s vestibular system works closely with your eyes and muscles to maintain balance. When this system is disrupted, you may experience spinning sensations (vertigo), lightheadedness, or motion sensitivity.
Common causes include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Ménière’s disease. Our audiologists collaborate with medical providers to identify causes and recommend next steps, which may include vestibular therapy or specialized medical care.
When to seek help
- Sudden hearing loss or new tinnitus
- Dizziness that lasts more than a few minutes
- Balance problems that cause falls or interfere with walking
- Ringing in one ear only or with pressure/fullness
Ready to hear life clearly again?
The first step is simple. Schedule a hearing evaluation at our Libertyville or Gurnee office and discover solutions that fit you, your goals, and your lifestyle.