Dizziness: Prevalence, risk factors and management

Abstract

Vertigo and dizziness are two conditions whose prevalence throughout an individual's lifespan is estimated to range from 20% to 50% with a marked incidence regarding women. Starting from the frequency of these symptoms, the book explores different aspects of the otoneurology field and the vestibular diseases, from the anatomy of vestibular organs to the pharmacological, surgical and rehabilitative treatment of posterior labyrinth disorders. In particular, the benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (VPPB), Meniere's disease and dizziness in patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorders and vertebral fractures are described. A focus on specific techniques to evaluate vestibular disorders is included and the video head impulse test (vHIT) and vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) application are shown to study each part of the posterior part of the inner ear. A specific chapter is dedicated to the management of postural disorders in vestibular dysfunctions, from the postural evaluation to the many different protocols of vestibular rehabilitation. The principles of pharmacotherapy are described; medications to treat dizziness and vertigo can include anticholinergics, antihistamines, benzodiazepines and other drugs including antiemetics, sympathomimetic and calcium antagonists. Finally, the principles underlying the surgical strategies in the management of the vertiginous patients, furthermore a general description of the technical aspects of each procedure are provided to show indications, potentials, limits, and contraindications of vestibular surgery.