Dizzy? What Is Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)?
And can it be treated holistically?
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) is a rare inner ear disorder that affects balance and hearing. It is caused by an abnormal opening in the bone that covers the superior semicircular canal of the inner ear. This opening, also known as a dehiscence, allows fluid to escape from the inner ear, leading to a range of symptoms, including autophony, which is the perception of one's own internal sounds, such as breathing, heartbeat, or eye movements, as external sounds.
The superior canal dehiscence syndrome is characterized by a range of symptoms, including dizziness, vertigo, pressure in the ear, fullness, and tinnitus. The disorder is often misdiagnosed and may not be recognized until multiple tests are performed.
The symptoms of SCDS can be divided into two categories: those related to hearing and those related to balance.
Hearing-related symptoms:
Autophony: hearing one's own internal sounds, such as breathing, heartbeat, or eye movements, as external sounds
Tinnitus: hearing sounds that are not present, such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing
Hyperacusis: increased sensitivity to sound, often accompanied by discomfort or pain
Balance-related symptoms:
Dizziness: a feeling of imbalance or unsteadiness
Vertigo: a sensation of spinning or rotating
Oscillopsia: a feeling of movement or motion, often accompanied by blurring or distortion of vision
Postural instability: difficulty maintaining balance or posture
The diagnosis of SCDS is often challenging and requires a comprehensive evaluation, including audiometric tests, vestibular tests, and imaging studies, such as CT or MRI scans. Treatment options for SCDS include surgery, vestibular physical therapy, and medication.
The symptoms of SCDS can be managed and treated with the help of a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including otolaryngologists, audiologists, and physical therapists.
Surgery is often the most effective treatment option, and can involve plugging or resurfacing the dehiscence with the patient's own tissue or bone.
Superior canal dehiscence syndrome is a rare and complex condition, and it is essential to seek medical attention from a specialist to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with SCDS.
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) Treatment
Treatment for Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) typically involves a combination of medical and surgical interventions, as well as lifestyle modifications. The specific treatment approach may vary depending on the individual's symptoms, severity of the condition, and overall health. Here are some common treatment options for SCDS:
Medical Treatment:
Antibiotics: for mastoiditis, a condition that can occur when SCDS is not treated.
Corticosteroids: to reduce inflammation and pressure in the inner ear.
Pain management: to alleviate symptoms such as tinnitus, vertigo, and ear pain.
Medications: such as antihistamines, anticholinergics, and benzodiazepines, which can help to relieve symptoms of SCDS, including vertigo, tinnitus, and ear fullness.
Surgical Treatment:
Plugging or resurfacing the dehiscence: a surgical procedure to repair the hole in the bone over the superior semicircular canal.
Mastoiditis drainage: a surgical procedure to drain the mastoid cells and relieve pressure and infection.
Tympanoplasty: a surgical procedure to repair the eardrum and middle ear.
Cochlear implantation: a surgical procedure to restore hearing in individuals with significant hearing loss.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Avoiding loud sounds: to reduce the risk of exacerbating symptoms.
Keeping the ear canal clean: to prevent infection and reduce symptoms.
Using earplugs: to reduce exposure to loud sounds and prevent further damage.
Managing stress: to reduce the impact of SCDS on daily life.
Interdisciplinary Treatment:
SCDS treatment often involves a team of healthcare professionals, including:
Otolaryngologists (ENTs): specialized ear, nose, and throat surgeons.
Audiologists: professionals who specialize in hearing and balance disorders.
Neurologists: specialists who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain and nervous system.
Physical therapists: professionals who help to improve balance, mobility, and overall function.
Speech therapists: professionals who help to improve communication and swallowing skills.
Treatment planning for SCDS requires a comprehensive evaluation of each individual's symptoms, medical history, and overall health. A multidisciplinary approach can help to ensure that individuals with SCDS receive the best possible treatment and management for their condition.
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) and Mastoiditis
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) can cause fluid to collect in the mastoid cells, also known as mastoiditis. This is because the dehiscence in the superior semicircular canal can lead to abnormal communication between the inner ear and the mastoid air cells.
The mastoid air cells are connected to the middle ear and are normally filled with air. In individuals with SCDS, the dehiscence in the superior semicircular canal can create a pathway for fluid to escape from the inner ear and accumulate in the mastoid air cells. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
Mastoiditis: inflammation of the mastoid cells, which can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the mastoid region
Conductive hearing loss: fluid in the mastoid cells can reduce the ability of sound to reach the inner ear
Mastoiditis-related symptoms: such as ear fullness, pressure, and discharge
Fluid accumulation in the mastoid cells can be exacerbated by various factors, including:
Eustachian tube dysfunction: impaired function of the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat
Increased intracranial pressure: pressure within the skull can also contribute to fluid accumulation in the mastoid cells
Middle ear dysfunction: abnormal function of the middle ear structures can also contribute to fluid accumulation in the mastoid cells
In some cases, SCDS can lead to chronic mastoiditis, which is characterized by persistent fluid accumulation in the mastoid cells. This can be accompanied by chronic symptoms, such as ear fullness, discharge, and facial pain.
Treatment for SCDS-related mastoiditis may involve a combination of medical and surgical interventions, including:
Antibiotics: to treat infection and inflammation
Tympanocentesis: draining of the mastoid cells to relieve pressure and reduce fluid accumulation
Mastoidectomy: surgical removal of the mastoid cells to address chronic infection and fluid accumulation
Surgery to repair the dehiscence in the superior semicircular canal
Early diagnosis and treatment of SCDS-related mastoiditis can help to alleviate symptoms and improve hearing outcomes.
Holistic Treatments for Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)
There are several holistic treatments that can be considered as adjunctive therapies for Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) and related mastoiditis. While these treatments may not replace traditional medical care, they can help to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. Here are some examples:
Lifestyle modifications:
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep, can help to alleviate symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of SCDS, including tinnitus and vertigo.
Herbal therapy:
Certain herbs, such as Ginkgo biloba, St. John's Wort, and Omega-3 fatty acids, may help to alleviate symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis. Here is a brief overview of the rationale for each herb:
Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo biloba is an herb that has been used for centuries for its potential benefits for the circulatory system and the brain. It is believed to improve blood flow to the inner ear, which can help to alleviate symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis, such as tinnitus and vertigo.
St. John's Wort: St. John's Wort is an herb that has been used for its potential benefits for mood and anxiety. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of fat that is found in certain foods, such as fish, nuts, and seeds. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the inner ear and alleviate symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
It is important to note that herbs can interact with other medications and may have side effects, so it is essential to consult with an integrative healthcare professional before starting any new herbal therapies.
Chiropractic care:
Chiropractic manipulation can help to relieve pressure and tension in the neck and head, which can contribute to symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Massage therapy:
Massage therapy can help to reduce tension and inflammation in the muscles and joints, which can contribute to symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Meditation and relaxation techniques:
Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Dietary therapy:
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other nutrients can help to support overall health and reduce symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Biofeedback therapy:
Biofeedback therapy can help to teach individuals how to manage and reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Mind-body therapies:
Mind-body therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help to address underlying psychological issues that may contribute to symptoms of SCDS and mastoiditis.
Do note that if you choose to get surgical treatment for SCDS, you should get off all herbs and supplements 1-2 weeks prior and for at least a week after surgery as many herbs and supplements have blood-thinning properties.