Difficulty with balance while walking
Overview
Difficulty with balance while walking is a condition where individuals experience unsteadiness, wobbling, or feeling off-balance when moving on foot. This symptom can manifest as stumbling, veering to one side, or requiring support to maintain stability during normal walking activities.
Common Causes
Balance difficulties while walking can stem from several common causes. Inner ear problems, such as infections or fluid buildup, often affect your body's natural balance system. Muscle weakness, particularly in the legs and core, can make it harder to maintain stability while moving. Certain medications, especially those for blood pressure or anxiety, may cause dizziness or lightheadedness that impacts balance. Vision changes or wearing incorrect prescription glasses can also throw off your spatial awareness. Additionally, dehydration, low blood sugar, or simply being overtired can temporarily affect your coordination and steady gait.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may notice occasional unsteadiness or need to briefly touch walls or furniture for support while walking, but can generally move around safely on your own.
Moderate: You experience frequent balance issues that cause you to stumble or veer off course regularly, requiring walking aids like a cane or walker, and may need assistance on uneven surfaces or stairs.
Severe: You have significant difficulty maintaining balance while walking and require constant support from another person or mobility device, with high risk of falls even during short distances or simple movements.
Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden onset of balance problems, especially if accompanied by severe headache, vision changes, or difficulty speaking. Contact your doctor if balance issues persist for more than a few days, worsen over time, or if you've had recent falls. Also consult a healthcare provider if balance problems interfere with your daily activities or if you're taking new medications that might affect your stability.
4k+ Collection Centres
90k+ Biomarkers Tested
Early Detection