Vertigo in Clinical Practice: Evidence-Based Diagnosis and Treatment

Excerpt

Vertigo is a common complaint encountered in primary care and emergency settings, characterized by a sensation of motion, typically rotational, resulting from vestibular dysfunction. Precise differentiation of vertigo from other types of dizziness, such as presyncope, disequilibrium, or lightheadedness, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. This symptom impacts individuals across all age groups. In younger patients, vertigo frequently originates from inner ear pathology. (see Image. Inner Ear Anatomy). In older adult populations, targeted assessment is imperative, as central causes of vertigo—more common among this demographic—elevate the risk of falls and associated complications. This necessitates meticulous evaluation to facilitate appropriate treatment and enhance patient outcomes.