[Treatment of dizziness as a symptom of functional somatic syndromes]

The term functional somatic syndrome (FSS) refers to several related syndromes characterized chiefly by symptoms, suffering, and disability and the absence of disease-specific, demonstrable structural or functional abnormalities. Dizziness is a common symptom of FSS. Generally, clinical examination in these cases is inconclusive. The complaints of these patients usually persist until a satisfactory treatment is administered. For the treatment of cases with FSS, first, signs of underlying psychological distress should be identified during history taking. It is essential to address the psychosocial aspect in these cases from a medical point of view. Drug therapy with serotonin reuptake inhibitors is therefore prescribed. Next, psychotherapy should be introduced. The final strategy usually is to collaborate with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.