The Dizzy Patient Flashcards
What is the difference between dizziness and vertigo?
Non-specific term which may cover vertigo, pre-syncope etc but vertigo is a sensation of movement (usually spinning- either them or the room)
Is meniere’s disease common?
no
Can vertigo be vertical?
yes
What is vertigo ussually associated with?
Ear pathology
What is the function of semi-circular canal?
Sensation of rotational movements
What affects balance?
Ears (vestibulocochlear nerve, semi-circular canals etc) , eyesight, arthritis (joint sensation), heart problems (e.g. reduced perfusion of brain and low blood pressure), neurological problems (stress, hyperventilation, migraines)
Explain the vestibulo-ocular reflex
-
What can go wrong with the vestibulo-ocular reflex?
-
What is nystagmus?
-
What is the usual pathology in nystagmus?
Left to right
When will nystagmus be observed?
Vestibular pathologies
Will non-vestibular pathologies cause nystagmus?
No
What is the most common cause of presentation to primary care in people over 74?
Dizziness
What do you want to ask about when present with dizziness?
-
What examinations would you do on a dizzy patient?
-
How will patients with depression present with dizziness?
non-specific
What is BPPV?
Benign positional paroxysmal vertigo -
Otolith material from the utricle (calcium carbonate crystals that attach to the hair follicles) have been displaced to the semi-circular canals (most commonly the posterior)
Is BPPV common?
Yes