Ear Conditions

Balance disorders and vertigo

Written by Mr Vikram Dhar, Consultant ENT Surgeon · Reviewed

Expert assessment of dizziness and balance disorders

Dizziness, vertigo and balance problems are common symptoms that can have a significant impact on daily life. Whether symptoms are brief or persistent, they can affect confidence, mobility, work and quality of life. While many balance disorders arise from conditions affecting the inner ear, similar symptoms may also be caused by neurological, cardiovascular or other medical conditions. An accurate diagnosis is therefore essential to ensure appropriate treatment.

Our team of consultant ENT surgeons has extensive experience in the assessment and management of patients with dizziness, vertigo and balance disorders. We provide a comprehensive, patient-centred approach, using detailed clinical assessment and specialist investigations to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop an individualised treatment plan.

Comprehensive assessment and diagnosis

The first step in managing balance disorders is understanding exactly what you are experiencing. During your consultation, we take a detailed history of your symptoms, including the nature of the dizziness, when it occurs, how long it lasts and any associated symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, ear fullness, nausea or headaches.

A thorough examination of the ears, neurological system and balance function is performed. Depending on your symptoms, we may recommend additional investigations including hearing tests (audiometry), vestibular function testing, positional testing for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), blood tests or imaging such as MRI scanning when clinically indicated. Our aim is to reach an accurate diagnosis efficiently while avoiding unnecessary investigations.

Expertise in treating balance disorders

Our consultants diagnose and manage the full range of vestibular disorders, including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease, vestibular migraine, persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) and age-related balance disorders. We also assess patients with dizziness following head injury, ear surgery or other complex conditions.

Treatment is tailored to the underlying diagnosis and may include repositioning manoeuvres such as the Epley manoeuvre for BPPV, medication, lifestyle advice, vestibular rehabilitation therapy and, in selected cases, surgical management of inner ear disorders. We work closely with experienced audiologists, vestibular physiotherapists and neurologists where appropriate to ensure patients receive comprehensive, multidisciplinary care.

Personalised care and long-term support

Balance disorders can be distressing and unpredictable, often affecting confidence and independence. We understand the impact these symptoms can have on work, driving, exercise and everyday activities. Our priority is not only to diagnose the cause of your symptoms but also to help you regain confidence and return to normal life as quickly as possible.

We believe that successful treatment depends on clear communication and shared decision-making. We take time to explain your diagnosis, discuss the available treatment options and answer any questions you may have. Where symptoms require ongoing management, we provide continued follow-up and support, adapting treatment as your condition evolves.

Specialist care you can trust

Our consultants combine extensive experience in balance disorders with modern diagnostic technology and evidence-based treatments. Whether you are experiencing your first episode of vertigo, recurrent dizziness or a long-standing balance problem, we provide expert assessment, accurate diagnosis and personalised care to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Our aim is to restore balance, improve quality of life and provide reassurance through every stage of your assessment and treatment.