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Published on: August 30, 2019
Falls and vestibular impairment
V B Pothula1, F Chew, T H J Lesser
1Department of Otolaryngology and Medicine for the Elderly, University Hospital Aintree, Liverpool, UK. vijaybabu@aol.com
Clinical Otolaryngology and Allied Sciences
|April 29, 2004
Summary
Unexplained falls are common in emergency departments. A study found 80% of patients with unexplained falls experienced vestibular impairment symptoms in the past year, suggesting a link to imbalance.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Unexplained falls are a frequent reason for emergency department visits.
- Identifying underlying causes is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of vestibular impairment symptoms in patients presenting with unexplained falls.
- To assess the association between vestibular symptoms and unexplained falls.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 3139 patients presenting to an Accident and Emergency department.
- 428 patients with unexplained falls completed the Vestibular Symptom Scale questionnaire.
- Assessment of vestibular symptoms over the preceding 12 months.
Main Results:
- Out of 546 patients with unexplained falls, 428 (76%) participated.
- 80% of participating patients reported significant vestibular impairment symptoms.
- Vestibular symptoms were prevalent in patients experiencing unexplained falls.
Conclusions:
- A substantial proportion of unexplained fallers exhibit symptoms of vestibular impairment.
- Vestibular impairment may be a significant contributing factor to falls and postural instability.
- Early identification and vestibular rehabilitation can improve outcomes for these patients.
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