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Published on: April 28, 2020
Depressive symptoms underestimated in vertiginous patients
Sirpa Ketola1, Mari Havia, Björn Appelberg
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, South-Carelian Central Hospital, Lappeenranta, Finland. sirpa.ketola@ekshp.fi
Summary
Nearly 20% of patients experiencing vertigo also suffer from depression. This study highlights the need for integrated psychiatric assessment alongside neuro-otologic evaluations to improve treatment outcomes for vertigo patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Vertigo is a common condition with significant impact on quality of life.
- The co-occurrence of depression in vertiginous patients is not fully understood.
- Integrated care approaches may improve patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of depression among individuals presenting with vertigo.
- To explore the relationship between depression and vertigo characteristics.
- To identify gaps in the treatment of depression in vertiginous patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 100 randomly selected vertiginous patients.
- Participants completed self-rating scales: Beck Depression Index, Zung anxiety scale, and DIP-Q.
- Data collected at the Helsinki University ENT clinic.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of depression was found to be 19% in the study cohort.
- Depression was more common in men than women.
- Depression correlated significantly with a family history of vertigo and subjective disability (P < 0.01).
- A substantial majority (89%) of depressed patients were not receiving adequate antidepressive care.
Conclusions:
- Approximately 20% of patients with vertigo exhibit depressive symptoms.
- Psychiatric and psychosomatic symptom assessment is crucial for comprehensive neuro-otologic evaluation.
- Integrating mental health assessments can lead to better treatment strategies and prevent chronic conditions.
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