why do I get dizzier the older I get?

[scm1001]

I know this is true of a lot of people. When I was a teen, I could go on any fairground ride withoutout getting sick. Now at 45, all I have to do is get on a kids merry-go-round and my head spins. Is it an inner ear-balance problem or just psycological

[mittu]

This website gives information on one age related cause of dizzyness:

Vertebral basilar insufficiency

Vertebral basilar insufficiency occurs when there is narrowing of the arteries that supply the posterior brain (subclavian, vertebral, or basilar arteries). It is usually the result of hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), and occurs among patients older than 50 years of age. The narrowed arteries decrease the blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen to the vestibular center in the brain. Since the vestibular system is very sensitive to a lack of oxygen, balance problems are often one of the first symptoms of vertebral basilar insufficiency.

Other signs of decreased oxygen to the brain are also usually present. These signs include visual changes, weakness, and fainting. Patients tend to describe their imbalance as lightheadedness that frequently occurs when they stand up quickly.

IANAD so i’m not saying that this is always the cause of dizzyness in older people, but it is one case of an age-related condition causing the problem.

[mittu]

Apologies for the double post (I seem to do it all the time) but I just found this website, it explains age-related changes in the ear.

Changes in the middle ear with advancing age also contribute to a weakening sense of balance. The vestibular system is responsible for our sense of balance. The vestibular apparatus begins to degenerate with age in a similar way to the hearing apparatus. Equilibrium becomes compromised and older individuals may complain of dizziness and find it difficult to move quickly without losing their balance.

[Ruken]

IANAMD, but I know some people have had balance issues because of hormonal problems (which were fixed). Another stopped feeling dizzy after starting to get monthly vitamin B12 shots (the shots were for something else). Anectdotal, yes, but possibly something to talk w/a doctor about.

[scm1001]

thanks for the link on the vestibular system. With that key word I was able to find this page http://www.pneuro.com/publications/dizzy/ which explains what I am going through and why. Guess I will just have to grin and bear it, though it does suggest some possible exercises