Balance disorders and vertigo Archive

Tongue swelling can stem from drug reactions, infections, vitamin deficits, thyroid issues, or rare disorders. Learn which clues help sort out the cause.

Sudden bursts of sneezing in bright light can seem like an odd "sun allergy." Explore what's happening in the nerves that link your eyes and nose.

A stubborn "lump in the throat" feeling can stem from postnasal drip, reflux, irritation, or even a small pouch in the esophagus. Explore possible causes.

Most nosebleeds can be controlled without a hospital visit. Learn the key at-home step that helps stop bleeding fast and when to seek care.

Sudden spells where the world flips and blurs can be alarming. Explore possible causes, from inner ear issues to your nighttime sleep supplement.

Motion sickness is tricky to treat. Gadgets such as wristbands and special glasses may help, but their reported benefits may be due to the placebo effect. Several drugs, including a new one that curbs vomiting, are available.

The term ototoxicity describes inner ear damage from drugs that can cause tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and affect hearing and sometimes balance. Medications more likely to cause ototoxicity include aspirin; the antibiotics azithromycin and clarithromycin; certain chemotherapy drugs; loop diuretics such as furosemide (Lasix); and some biologics. These drugs can damage hearing by injuring hairlike projections in the inner ear. People taking ototoxic drugs should get their hearing tested before, during, and after using the drug.

Hyperacusis describes sensitivity to some or all sounds, no matter the volume. Depending on the person, sounds might be uncomfortably loud; cause pain in the ear, head, or another part of the body; trigger negative emotional responses; or make someone dizzy. These reactions might be due to irritated or overactive nerve fibers or muscles in the ear. While doctors have few treatments for hyperacusis, certain strategies help, such as avoiding sound triggers, wearing hearing protection, and engaging in sound therapy.