Dizzy Patient Flashcards
What is vertigo?
A sensation of movement involving spinning
What are the five vestibular end organs?
Ampullae of lateral, posterior and superior semicircular canals
Maculae of utricle and saccule
What is the vestibulo-ocular reflex?
When eye direction remains the same in head movement
What is the commonest cause of vertigo on looking up?
Benign positional paroxysmal vertigo
In BPPV, otolith crystals are commonly displaced into which semicircular canal?
Posterior
When does the vertigo occur in BPPV?
Looking up
Turning in bed
Bending forward
Are there any associated symptoms in BPPV?
No
How long does the vertigo usually last in BPPV?
Minutes
How can BPPV be tested for?
Hallpike’s test - looking for nystagmus
How long does vestibular neuronitis last for?
Days-weeks
Are there any associated symptoms in vestibular neuronitis?
No
How long does labyrinthitis last for?
Days-weeks
Are there any associated symptoms in labyrinthitis?
Yes - associated tinnitus and hearing loss
How is vestibular neuronitis/labyrinthitis treated?
Supportive - give anti-emetics
What occurs in Meniere’s disease?
Recurrent spontaneous rotational vertigo lasting >20 mins
How may a patient know if they are about to have a Meniere’s attack?
Tinnitus will occur or get worse on affected side
How can Meniere’s be managed?
Supportive treatment during episodes Tinnitus therapy Salt restriction Inserting grommets Infratympanic gentamicin/steroids
A headache affecting one side with poor balance suggests what?
Migraine
