Balance disorders aren’t just inconvenient; they can be dangerous. The last thing you want to do is stumble in a dark room like Cinemark Tinseltown as the credits are rolling. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to help prevent a fall. But first you should learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of a balance disorder.
Signs & Symptoms of Balance Disorders
Balance disorders affect everyone differently. If you have a balance disorder, you may experience just one or all of the following symptoms:
- Lightheadedness/feeling faint.
- Dizziness/vertigo (feeling as if you or the room around you is spinning).
- Poor coordination.
- Trouble staying upright in the dark.
- Veering when walking.
- Stumbling frequently/feeling unsteady on your feet.
- Sensitive to light or sound.
How to Prevent Falls
Once you recognize that you are at risk of feeling dizzy or falling, be sure to do what you can to prevent injury-related falls. This includes:
Getting Help for Your Balance Disorder
While balance problems are not usually a sign of anything serious, it’s important to rule out dangerous conditions early. In addition, there may be an easy fix to your balance problems, like switching medications or performing the Epley maneuver.
Exercising Regularly
In order to prevent an injury, it’s important to have a strong body, especially your core. Tai chi, yoga, Pilates and traditional strength training can all help you be able to catch yourself if you begin to stumble.
Using Handrails
Falls can happen at any age. Make it a point to use handrails whenever you’re going up or down stairs in order to prevent a disastrous fall.
Removing Tripping Hazards
Be sure to remove anything that you could trip over from the floors in your home, such as rugs and piles of clutter.
Safety-Proofing Your Home
In the same vein, you can safety-proof your home by placing handrails in the bath and shower as well as in staircases. Make sure your home is nice and bright so you can see where you’re going and if there’s anything on the floor.
Wearing Good Shoes
Investing in low-heeled flexible shoes that have a good tread is one of the best ways to improve balance and prevent a fall.
For more information about preventing falls or to talk to a balance expert, call The McCoy Institute of Hearing & Balance today.
