OnlineMedEd: Neurology - Dizziness

Question 1

If someone says they were “dizzy” but they passed out, then it was likely ______________.

Answer 1

syncope

Question 2

What are signs that vertigo is peripheral in origin?

Answer 2

The cochlear nerve is in the periphery, so if there are disturbances in hearing or balance then the vertigo is likely peripheral in origin.

Question 3

Signs that indicate a central cause of vertigo include _______________.

Answer 3

lack of hearing and balance issues with the presence of other brainstem nuclei or other focal neurologic deficits

Question 4

The most common causes of central vertigo include ________________.

Answer 4

multiple sclerosis, vascular problems, and neoplasms

Question 5

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is caused by _______________.

Answer 5

otoliths

Question 6

BBPV typically lasts ____________.

Answer 6

less than 1 minute

Question 7

Dix-Hallpike causes _____________ in those with BPPV.

Answer 7

rotary nystagmus

Question 8

Describe vestibular neuritis.

Answer 8

• Post-viral (usually four weeks after a URI)
• Vertigo and hearing loss
• Lasts 1 to 10 minutes

Question 9

List the triad of symptoms that occur in Meniere’s.

Answer 9

• Hearing loss
• Vertigo
• Tinnitus

Question 10

What time criteria does Meniere’s usually take?

Answer 10

Between 30 minutes and 1 hour

Question 11

How should Meniere’s be treated?

Answer 11

It is a lifelong condition, so you manage their symptoms:
•Meclizine for vertigo
•Salt restriction and thiazides for decreasing the fluid accumulation