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Interactions between Stress and Vestibular Compensation - A Review
Yougan Saman1, D E Bamiou, Michael Gleeson
1Department of Neuro-otology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Institute of Neurology, University College London London, UK.
Frontiers in Neurology
|August 7, 2012
Summary
Stress and anxiety significantly impact vestibular function. Animal studies show stress activates the stress axis and aids vestibular system plasticity, but human evidence remains complex.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Vestibular System
- Stress Physiology
Background:
- Stress and anxiety are frequently linked with vestibular dysfunction, including dizziness and loss of balance.
- Conversely, vestibular symptoms are prevalent in anxiety disorders, suggesting a bidirectional relationship.
- The interplay between stress and vestibular function is a growing area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing animal and clinical evidence on the effects of stress on vestibular function.
- To explore the role of stress in the pathogenesis and management of human vestibular disorders.
- To focus on the impact of stress on central vestibular pathways.
Main Methods:
- Review of animal model studies investigating stress and vestibular system interactions.
- Analysis of clinical studies examining the relationship between stress, anxiety, and vestibular disorders.
- Synthesis of evidence focusing on central vestibular pathways.
Main Results:
- Animal studies demonstrate that vestibular symptoms activate the stress axis.
- Acute stress responses are crucial for compensatory synaptic and neuronal plasticity in the vestibular system and cerebellum.
- The role of stress in human vestibular disorders is complex and requires further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Stress significantly influences the vestibular system, particularly central pathways.
- Understanding the stress-vestibular axis is vital for managing human vestibular disorders.
- Further clinical research is needed to elucidate the definitive role of stress in human vestibular dysfunction.
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