Part 8 - Balance Disorders & Management

Question 1

What are 4 ways to manage balance disorders?

Answer 1

Observation
PT
Pharmacologic
Surgery

Question 2

Pharmacologic management of balance disorders is non-specific relief of symptoms. What are the 2 categories of pharmacologic management?

Answer 2

Vestibular Suppression

Tx and prophylaxis of specific vertiginous conditions (e.g. Meniere’s, migraines)

Question 3

T/F: Vestibular suppression improves compensation and prevents vertigo

Answer 3

False:
Vestibular suppression decreases the intensity of a spell, but does not prevent vertigo.
- Side effect is central sedation
- persistent use hampers compensation

Question 4

Describe the 4 categories of vestibular suppression commonly used

Answer 4

Neuroleptics for acute vertigo
Anticholinergics for motion sickness
Benzodiazepines for acute vertigo and motion sickness
Antihistamines for motion sickness and chronic dizziness

Question 5

Name 3 drugs that accelerate dynamic compensation

Answer 5

Amphetamines
bromocriptine
ACTH
Caffeine
TRH