Audiologists Provide Balance Testing and Vestibular
Rehabilitation Services to Children and Adults Experiencing
Dizziness, Vertigo, and Other Balance Issues
ROCKVILLE, Md., Sept. 10,
2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The American
Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is proud to announce its
partnership with the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) for
Balance Awareness Week, September 15–21, 2024. This collaboration
aims to raise awareness about vestibular disorders, educate the
public on the impact of balance disorders, and advocate for those
affected by these often "invisible" illnesses.
Balance disorders are frequently termed
"invisible" illnesses because, unlike physical disabilities, their
symptoms are not easily observed.
Vestibular disorders are conditions that affect the inner ear
and brain, leading to problems with balance, dizziness, vertigo,
and spatial orientation. The vestibular system includes parts of
the inner ear and brain that help control balance and eye
movements. When disease, aging, or injury damage these systems,
various symptoms—including dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and
nausea—can result.
Balance disorders are frequently termed "invisible" illnesses
because, unlike physical disabilities, their symptoms are not
easily observed. Consequently, vestibular disorders often go
unnoticed, causing those who experience them to be deprived of
empathy and understanding from others. Ultimately, people with
balance disorders can feel isolated and have difficulty obtaining a
proper diagnosis and treatment.
"Although balance disorders are relatively common, they are all
too often overlooked, which is so unfortunate," said Tena McNamara, AuD, CCC-A/SLP, 2024 ASHA
President. "Balance issues can have a significant negative impact
on a person's daily life and functioning. Greater awareness and
understanding of these disorders are needed so they can be treated
effectively. I encourage anyone with symptoms or concerns about
their balance to visit an audiologist for comprehensive testing. By
doing so, they can get answers, determine next steps, and start on
a path to an improved quality of life."
Balance Awareness Week, organized by VeDA, will feature
educational campaigns, patient stories, and community events—all
designed to inform and engage the public. By partnering with VeDA
for Balance Awareness Week, ASHA aims to achieve the following
goals:
- Increase Public Awareness: Educate the public about vestibular
disorders and their impact on individuals' lives.
- Promote Understanding: Help people recognize the symptoms and
challenges of vestibular disorders.
- Support Patients: Provide resources and support for those
living with balance disorders.
- Encourage Empathy: Foster a community that understands and
supports those with invisible illnesses.
For more information on how to get involved and to access
resources, please visit the Vestibular Disorders Association at
vestibular.org/BAW. To find an ASHA-certified audiologist in your
area who can provide balance testing, visit
http://www.asha.org/profind.
About the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
(ASHA)
ASHA is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing
association for 234,000 members and affiliates who are
audiologists; speech-language pathologists; speech, language, and
hearing scientists; audiology and speech-language pathology
assistants; and students. Audiologists specialize in preventing and
assessing hearing and balance disorders as well as providing
audiologic treatment, including hearing aids. Speech-language
pathologists (SLPs) identify, assess, and treat speech, language,
and swallowing disorders. http://www.asha.org
Media Contact
Francine Pierson, ASHA,
301-296-8715, fpierson@asha.org, https://www.asha.org
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content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/asha-partners-with-veda-to-shine-a-much-needed-light-on-invisible-balance-disorders-for-balance-awareness-week-302244017.html
SOURCE ASHA