Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 2/17/2009

Question
5 months ago I developed a balance problem: a constant feeling of disequlibrium and instability, most noticeable when I'm trying to walk down the sidewalk. I feel llike there is a strange pressure in my nose that is affecting my eyes and making me feel so off balance. I have to keep stopping to hold on to street furniture and feel like my legs are just going to  freeze - like I'm walking on a matress. ENT say my hearing and ear pressure is okay and don't therefore think that it's neurological; the optician  says my eyes seem okay apart from astigmatism causing a very weak prescription. I am now very worried that I've got some sort of tumour, as I don't get any respite from this symptom (when it first came on I might feel normal for half an outing but not the other half, or I might feel relatively okay for a few days, but for the past few months it's constant. Walking on cobbles feels much better than flat pavement and it is not so obvious if I'm sitting down but it is apparent when standing still. I feel better walking if I just stare at my hands close up all the time. Have you any idea what i might have? Best wishes, Geraldine

Answer
Dear Geraldine,
From your description of you symptoms, you very well may have a vestibular (inner ear) disorder.  This can only be determined by specialized testing, e.g., Electronystagmography, which evaluates the balance portion of your inner ear.  

I strongly suggest you find another ENT and audiologist who will perform a complete balances assessment.

Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology