Dizziness Flashcards
List the main ENT causes of dizziness
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo Meniere's disease Vestibular neuritis Labrynthitis Migrainous vertigo
List the main optic causes of dizziness
Cataracts
Retinopathy
In basic terms, how does the vestibulo-cochlear reflex prevent dizziness?
Keeps eyes fixed despite head movements
Turning head to right inhibits left-sided firing + excites right-sided firing
What is the main clinical sign of impaired vestibulo-cochlear reflex? State its definition
Nystagmus
Uncontrolled continuous to-and-fro movement of eyes
List the main examinations that may be carried out when investigating dizziness
Otoscopy Neurological Blood pressure Balance system Audiommetry
What happens in benign positional paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV)?
Dizziness on looking up/turning a certain way
How long does dizziness usually last in BPPV?
A few seconds (max 1 min)
What is the supposed pathophysiology behind BPPV?
Otolith material from utricle breaks off + traps in posterior semicircular canal
List movements that typically illicit BPPV
Turning in bed Looking up Lying down Rising from bending (gardening) Sudden head movement in 1 direction
BPPV is associated wit tinnitus, aural fullness and hearing loss. True/False?
False
Not usually
What is the main examination test done for BPPV?
Hallpike test
Describe the Hallpike test
Lie on couch with head hanging off edge;
Turn head 45’;
Don’t close eyes if dizzy;
Will usually see nystagmus, but only 1st time
Which 2 manoeuvres can be used to treat BPPV?
Epley
Brandt-Daroff exercise
What happens in vestibular neuritis?
Prolonged vertigo (days)
Which is more likely to be associated with hearing loss and tinnitus - vestibular neuritis or labrynthitis?
Labyrinthitis
