Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo is a common cause of dizziness and unsteadiness in a large population of 75-year-olds

• Background and aims: Dizziness is a common problem among the elderly. Studies have shown that 65% of people with dizziness may have a vestibular etiologic diagnosis, possibly Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). The diagnosis of BPPV is made by history and findings in the Dix-Hallpike test. It can be difficult to perform the Dix-Hallpike test in elderly persons due to limited range of motion when extending the neck. In this study we used a side-lying test to stimulate the posterior semicircular canal while the head and neck were fully supported on the examination table. The aims were to investigate the prevalence of dizziness or impaired balance and BPPV in a 75-year old population. Methods: A representative population sample of 675 persons completed a questionnaire about dizziness and 571 persons performed side-lying, static balance and dynamic walking tests.Results: Subjective dizziness and/or impaired balance was found in 36% especially when walking outdoors. A significant gender difference was found with a higher prevalence in women (40%) compared to men (30%) (p<0.01). BPPV was found in 11%. This was significantly more common in women compared to men (p<0.01). Elderly persons with BPPV also showed significantly impaired balance ability in static and dynamic balance tests compared to age matched persons without BPPV(p<0.01). Persons with BPPV reported significantly more subjective problems with dizziness and balance compared to persons without BPPV (p<0.001).Conclusions: Subjective and objective unsteadiness, dizziness and BPPV are common in elderly. The side-lying test is a good screening test for BPPV.

Nyckelord

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Dizziness

Static balance

Dynamic balance

Elderly

MEDICINE

MEDICIN

Medicin

Medicine

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vet (ämneskategori)

ovr (ämneskategori)