Suggest Remedy For Balancing Issues In And Elderly Person

Posted on Mon, 30 Mar 2015

Question: I am nearing my 85th Birthday. I note that I am beginning to have a balance problem. If I am walking and for some reason lean to the right or left, my body seems to want to continue in that direction. Is there medication that will help my equalibrion?

XXXX My number is:

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Balance training and betahistine

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX Fish,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. Sense of falling and continuing to fall on one side is due to loss of balance. It is commonly due to age related changes in the vestibular system in ear.
2. Most important would be balance training, which will train the vestibular system. Your physiotherapist could help you with this.
3. Also keep your surrounding safe with good lighting, anti skid pathways, Hand railings, safety in bathroom, etc. Use walking stick if necessary.
4. For medication, Vertin ( betahistine) or meclizine maybe taken.

Balance training and avoiding falls is essential.

Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.

Dr. Prakash HM

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar