How do antihistamines like Benadryl affect vertigo symptoms. What is the efficacy of antihistamines compared to benzodiazepines for acute vertigo. How do histamine receptors in the inner ear influence balance and dizziness. What are the latest treatment options for peripheral vertigo using antihistamines.

Understanding Vertigo and Its Prevalence

Vertigo is a common vestibular disorder characterized by a false sensation of spinning or movement. It can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and daily activities. But just how prevalent is this condition?

Studies have shown that vertigo affects a substantial portion of the population. According to epidemiological research, the lifetime prevalence of vertigo is estimated to be around 7.4% in the general population. In adults aged 60 years and older, this number increases to approximately 30%.

Vertigo can be classified into two main categories:

• Peripheral vertigo: Originating from issues in the inner ear or vestibular nerve
• Central vertigo: Stemming from problems in the brain, particularly the brainstem or cerebellum

Peripheral vertigo is more common, accounting for about 80% of all vertigo cases. The most frequent cause of peripheral vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), followed by vestibular neuritis and Ménière’s disease.

The Role of Histamine in Vestibular Function

To understand how antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can affect vertigo, it’s crucial to explore the role of histamine in the vestibular system. Histamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in various physiological processes, including vestibular function.

Recent research has identified the presence of histamine receptors in the inner ear and vestibular nuclei. These findings have shed light on the potential mechanisms by which antihistamines may influence balance and dizziness.

Histamine Receptors in the Inner Ear

Studies have revealed the presence of multiple histamine receptor subtypes in the inner ear structures, including:

• H1 receptors
• H2 receptors
• H3 receptors
• H4 receptors

These receptors are found in various parts of the cochlea and vestibular system, suggesting a complex interplay between histamine signaling and inner ear function.

Histamine’s Effect on Vestibular Neurotransmission

Research has demonstrated that histamine can influence neurotransmission in the semicircular canals and vestibular nuclei. This influence occurs through the activation of different histamine receptor subtypes, particularly H2 and H3 receptors.

For instance, studies have shown that histamine can excite neurons in the inferior and superior vestibular nuclei via H2 and H3 receptor activation. This excitation may contribute to the modulation of vestibular signals and, consequently, affect balance and spatial orientation.

Antihistamines as a Treatment for Vertigo

Given the involvement of histamine in vestibular function, antihistamines have emerged as a potential treatment option for vertigo. But how effective are they in managing acute vertigo symptoms?

Antihistamines, particularly first-generation H1 receptor antagonists like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), have been used for decades to treat vertigo and associated symptoms. These medications work by blocking histamine receptors, potentially reducing the excitatory effects of histamine on vestibular neurons.

Efficacy of Antihistamines for Acute Vertigo

Several studies have investigated the efficacy of antihistamines in treating acute vertigo. While results have been mixed, some key findings include:

• Reduction in vertigo intensity and duration
• Improvement in associated symptoms such as nausea and vomiting
• Potential for faster recovery in cases of vestibular neuritis

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of antihistamines can vary depending on the underlying cause of vertigo and individual patient factors.

Comparing Antihistamines and Benzodiazepines for Vertigo Treatment

While antihistamines have shown promise in treating vertigo, benzodiazepines are another class of medications commonly used for this purpose. How do these two types of drugs compare in terms of efficacy and safety?

Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and lorazepam, work by enhancing the effects of GABA, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This action can help reduce anxiety and muscle tension associated with vertigo.

Efficacy Comparison

Studies comparing antihistamines and benzodiazepines for acute vertigo treatment have yielded interesting results:

• Both classes of drugs can provide symptomatic relief in acute vertigo
• Antihistamines may be more effective in reducing nausea and vomiting
• Benzodiazepines may offer better anxiolytic effects, which can be beneficial for patients experiencing anxiety with vertigo

Safety Considerations

When comparing the safety profiles of antihistamines and benzodiazepines, several factors come into play:

• Antihistamines, especially first-generation ones, can cause drowsiness and cognitive impairment
• Benzodiazepines carry a risk of dependence and may impair balance, potentially increasing fall risk in elderly patients
• Both classes of drugs should be used with caution in older adults due to an increased risk of side effects

New Antihistamine Options for Vertigo Management

As our understanding of histamine’s role in vestibular function grows, researchers are exploring new antihistamine options for vertigo management. What are some of the promising developments in this area?

Betahistine: A Histamine Analog

Betahistine is a histamine analog that has gained attention for its potential in treating vestibular disorders, particularly Ménière’s disease. It acts as a weak H1 receptor agonist and a strong H3 receptor antagonist.

Studies have shown that betahistine may:

• Improve microcirculation in the inner ear
• Enhance vestibular compensation
• Reduce the frequency and severity of vertigo attacks in Ménière’s disease

Second-Generation Antihistamines

Researchers are also investigating the potential of second-generation antihistamines for vertigo treatment. These newer drugs offer several advantages over their first-generation counterparts:

• Reduced sedative effects due to limited blood-brain barrier penetration
• Longer duration of action, allowing for less frequent dosing
• Potentially fewer anticholinergic side effects

While more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that some second-generation antihistamines may be effective in managing vertigo symptoms with a better safety profile.

Combination Therapies: Enhancing Vertigo Treatment

As the field of vestibular disorder management evolves, researchers are exploring combination therapies that may offer enhanced efficacy in treating vertigo. What are some promising approaches in this area?

Antihistamine and Anticholinergic Combinations

One approach that has shown promise is the combination of antihistamines with anticholinergic drugs. This combination may provide synergistic effects in managing vertigo and associated symptoms.

For example, the combination of meclizine (an antihistamine) and scopolamine (an anticholinergic) has been studied for its potential in treating motion sickness and vertigo. The rationale behind this combination includes:

• Antihistamine effects on vestibular neurotransmission
• Anticholinergic action to reduce nausea and vomiting
• Potential for enhanced symptom control with lower doses of each drug

Antihistamines and Vestibular Rehabilitation

Another promising approach is the combination of antihistamine therapy with vestibular rehabilitation exercises. This multifaceted treatment strategy aims to address both the immediate symptoms of vertigo and the long-term goal of vestibular adaptation.

Studies have shown that this combination may:

• Accelerate recovery in patients with acute vestibular disorders
• Improve overall balance and reduce fall risk
• Enhance patient compliance with rehabilitation exercises by reducing symptom severity

Future Directions in Antihistamine Research for Vertigo

As our understanding of the vestibular system and histamine’s role in balance disorders continues to grow, what are some future directions for research in this field?

Targeted Histamine Receptor Modulation

One promising area of research involves developing drugs that can selectively modulate specific histamine receptor subtypes in the vestibular system. This targeted approach could potentially offer more effective treatments with fewer side effects.

Some areas of focus include:

• H3 receptor antagonists for enhancing vestibular compensation
• H4 receptor modulators for potential anti-inflammatory effects in the inner ear
• Dual-action drugs targeting multiple histamine receptor subtypes

Personalized Medicine Approaches

Another exciting direction is the development of personalized treatment strategies based on individual patient characteristics and the underlying cause of vertigo. This approach may involve:

• Genetic testing to identify patients who may respond better to certain antihistamines
• Advanced imaging techniques to guide treatment selection
• Development of biomarkers to predict treatment response and monitor progress

By tailoring treatments to individual patients, healthcare providers may be able to optimize vertigo management and improve outcomes.

Novel Drug Delivery Systems

Researchers are also exploring innovative drug delivery systems to enhance the efficacy of antihistamines in treating vertigo. Some promising approaches include:

• Transdermal patches for sustained drug release
• Intratympanic injections for direct drug delivery to the inner ear
• Nanoparticle-based formulations for improved blood-brain barrier penetration

These novel delivery methods may help overcome some of the limitations of current oral antihistamine treatments, such as systemic side effects and variable bioavailability.

Practical Considerations for Antihistamine Use in Vertigo

While antihistamines show promise in managing vertigo symptoms, there are several practical considerations that healthcare providers and patients should keep in mind. What are some key factors to consider when using antihistamines for vertigo treatment?

Patient Selection

Not all patients with vertigo will benefit equally from antihistamine treatment. Factors to consider include:

• The underlying cause of vertigo (e.g., BPPV, vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease)
• Patient age and overall health status
• Presence of comorbidities that may interact with antihistamines
• History of previous response to antihistamine treatment

Dosing and Duration

Proper dosing and duration of antihistamine treatment are crucial for maximizing benefits while minimizing side effects. Considerations include:

• Starting with lower doses and titrating up as needed
• Using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible
• Monitoring for signs of tolerance or dependence with long-term use
• Implementing a tapering schedule when discontinuing treatment

Managing Side Effects

Antihistamines, particularly first-generation drugs, can cause significant side effects. Strategies for managing these include:

• Educating patients about potential side effects and when to seek medical attention
• Considering nighttime dosing to minimize daytime drowsiness
• Exploring second-generation antihistamines for patients sensitive to sedative effects
• Monitoring for anticholinergic side effects, especially in older adults

Integrating Antihistamines with Other Treatments

Antihistamines are often most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This may involve:

• Combining pharmacological treatment with vestibular rehabilitation exercises
• Addressing underlying causes of vertigo when possible (e.g., canalith repositioning for BPPV)
• Implementing lifestyle modifications to reduce vertigo triggers
• Considering complementary therapies, such as acupuncture or cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety management

By taking these practical considerations into account, healthcare providers can optimize the use of antihistamines in vertigo management, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Management of peripheral vertigo with antihistamines: New options on the horizon

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5 misconceptions about vertigo, dizziness

Speaking of Health

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

Topics in this Post

• Ear Health

Many adults have experienced dizziness. It could have occurred after standing up too quickly, after a carnival ride, after taking a medication or during a migraine. Many body systems, including your muscles, bones, joints, eyes and the inner ear, must work normally for you to have normal balance. When these systems aren’t functioning well, you can experience balance problems.

About one-third of Americans at some point experience short-term bouts of feeling foggy, unsteady and lightheaded or feeling a spinning sensation. However, if these sensations recur or affect your life, it is time to talk with your health care provider.

Vertigo vs. dizziness

First, it is important to outline the differences between vertigo and dizziness. While these words are often used interchangeably, they describe different sensations. Dizziness is the feeling of being lightheaded, foggy or unsteady. Vertigo, which is less common than dizziness, is an overall spinning sensation.

Causes of vertigo and dizziness

Several conditions can cause balance problems, and these problems are usually related to a specific sign or symptom. Your health care team can identify the causes of your symptoms.

The most common cause of vertigo is when calcium crystals in your inner ear become dislodged from their normal position. This is called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Other causes of vertigo include inflammation of the nerves in your inner ear, migraine, head injury, Meniere’s disease, noncancerous tumor or motion sickness.

Often, the feelings of faintness or lightheadedness are caused by a significant drop in blood pressure, such as if you stand or sit up too quickly. Cardiovascular disease is another common cause.

Joint, muscle or vision problems, or nerve damage to your legs, frequently cause feelings of unsteadiness. Other causes could include medications you take, abnormalities in your inner ear or a neurological condition, such as Parkinson’s disease.

Finally, dizziness can be caused by medications, abnormalities in your inner ear or psychiatric disorders. It also can occur if you are hyperventilating or breathing rapidly.

Common misconceptions

These conditions often are misunderstood. Here are some common misconceptions about vertigo and dizziness:

1. Dizziness is always related to ear crystals.
   While benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is a common cause of vertigo, it is not associated with symptoms of dizziness. There are many other potential reasons for spells of dizziness.
2. Home remedies, like performing the canalith repositioning procedure or flushing your ears, will fix the problem.
   Not only can this be harmful, it can cause more problems. Attempting to reposition crystals without instruction from your health care provider can cause the crystals to be moved incorrectly. There have been instances where patients have given themselves a concussion during the process or damaged their eardrums from flushing liquid into their ears.
3. Dizziness is all in your head.
   Unfortunately, some people are told that their symptoms of dizziness or vertigo are not real or a result of mental illness. They are given advice to ignore it, and it will go away. Long-term dizziness and vertigo should not be ignored. Rather, a health care provider should treat these conditions.
4. Antihistamines, such as meclizine, solve dizziness.
   Meclizine is used to prevent and control nausea, vomiting and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It works to block the signals to the brain that cause these symptoms. However, if you have recurring vertigo or dizziness, taking antihistamines is not a good long-term solution. Meclizine can make you feel drowsy, which results in many people falling asleep until the episodes are over. In this situation, the medication is covering the symptoms, but it is not treating the condition.
5. You just need to deal with this because there are no long-term treatment options.
   Recurring vertigo or dizziness can significantly affect your life, such as missing social activities, or disrupting your abilities to drive or work. There is hope. Work with your health care team to identify the correct treatment option for you.

If you experience sudden vertigo with a decrease in hearing or ringing in your ear, seek emergency medical treatment. These are symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss, an inflammatory disorder probably caused by a virus that affect the nerves in the balance and hearing portions of your inner ear.

Mindy Zenke is a nurse practitioner in Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT/Otorhinolaryngology) in La Crosse, Sparta and Tomah, Wisconsin.

Topics in this Post

• Ear Health

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Treating your child’s hearing loss

Link between Benadryl and Anxiety – Drink-Drink

07/07/2022 DrinkDrinkAdmin

Contents

• Can Benadryl cause anxiety?
  • Why is this happening?
  • How common is it? How to Take Benadryl Safely0008
  • Benadryl tablets or capsules
  • Liquid Benadryl
  • Tips for taking Benadryl safely
• When to call your doctor if you have taken Benadryl and are feeling anxious
  • Emergency Medical Services 900 12
• Conclusion

Benadryl is a type of antihistamine drug available without a prescription. It is most commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms such as:

• runny nose
• sneezing
• itching

The active ingredient in Benadryl is called diphenhydramine. Like any medicine, Benadryl has a number of side effects. Some of the most common are:

• feeling sleepy or sleepy
• dry mouth or throat
• dizziness

It is also possible that after taking Benadryl, some people may feel:

• restless
• excitable
• alarming

Keep reading to find out why this happens and what to do if it happens.

Can Benadryl cause anxiety?

One of the most common side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness. Because of this, some people use Benadryl as a sleep aid.

However, it is also possible that Benadryl can do the opposite. When a drug has an effect opposite to what is expected, it is called a paradoxical effect.

In some people, Benadryl can actually have a stimulating effect called paradoxical arousal. People who experience this after taking Benadryl may report feeling:

• excitable
• nervous
• anxious
• restless
• agitated
• awake 9001 2
• hyper

Why is this happening?

It is generally not known why some people develop paradoxical arousal and others do not.

One theory from a 2008 case report is related to the type of genetic variation. Three people who reported paradoxical excitability in response to diphenhydramine had extra copies of a particular gene.

This gene encodes instructions for the production of the CYP2D6 enzyme. CYP2D6 is important for the breakdown (metabolism) of certain types of drugs such as Benadryl. The presence of additional CYP2D6 can significantly speed up the metabolism of Benadryl.

The aforementioned researchers suggested that in these people Benadryl could be rapidly broken down into substances that cause excitability rather than sedation. However, further studies are needed to confirm this.

How common is it?

There is currently no estimate of how common paradoxical arousal is in people taking Benadryl.

If the fast metabolism theory is correct, it could affect a significant number of people in the United States. The 2008 report reviewed above indicates that between 1% and 2% of people in the United States have a genetic variation.

In addition, paradoxical arousal seems to be more common in children. You will actually see this effect on Benadryl product labels.

Benadryl and Central Nervous System Depression

Taking Benadryl can slow down or depress the functions of your central nervous system (CNS).

This is what can lead to some of the common side effects of Benadryl, such as drowsiness or dizziness. This is why some people may use Benadryl to help them fall asleep or feel less restless.

Other Benadryl Side Effects

Now that we’ve discussed how Benadryl can be associated with feelings of excitability or anxiety, you might be wondering if Benadryl has any other similar side effects. Let’s look at it now.

Benadryl addiction

A person can become addicted to Benadryl. According to the National Health Service, this can happen if it is used frequently over a period of time, such as if you use Benadryl every day for 2 weeks or longer.

When someone becomes addicted to a substance, they may also experience withdrawal symptoms after they stop using it. These may include:

• tremor
• insomnia
• anxiety

It is important to always take Benadryl according to the directions on the product label or your doctor.

Because chronic use of Benadryl can lead to addiction, call your doctor if you find yourself taking Benadryl frequently to treat conditions such as allergies or sleep. They may recommend alternative medications that you can try instead.

Benadryl and dementia

It is possible that prolonged use of Benadryl may increase the risk of developing dementia. 2015 study description of a group of 3,434 people.

The study showed that higher cumulative intake of anticholinergic drugs was associated with an increased risk of dementia in this group. Examples of some types of anticholinergics include:

• first generation antihistamines such as Benadryl
• tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
• some medicines used to treat overactive bladder
• medicines used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

If you are concerned about Benadryl and dementia, be sure to only take Benadryl for a short period of time. You can also ask your doctor about alternative medicines that may help treat your symptoms.

How to take Benadryl safely

Benadryl can be found in several forms, including:

• Tablets
• Capsules
• liquids

You can find Benadryl products available without a prescription at grocery stores and pharmacies.

Benadryl tablets or capsules

According to the National Institutes of Health, Benadryl tablets or capsules contain 25 milligrams of diphenhydramine, the active ingredient. Recommended dosage of Benadryl:

• Age 12 years and older: 1 to 2 tablets total every 4-6 hours
• from 6 to 12 years: Tablet every 4-6 hours
• to 6 years: Take

Liquid Benadril

There are also liquid forms of Benadril, which can be used for children. When measuring liquid Benadryl, it is important to use the small cup that comes with the medicine. Do not measure with a kitchen spoon.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended dosage for this type of Benadryl is:

• 6 to 12 years: just 1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 milliliters) every 4 to 6 hours
• 4 to 6 years: use only under the direction of your child’s pediatrician
• Under 4 years: take

Tips for taking Benadryl safely

It is also important to follow the guidelines below to make sure you take Benadryl safely and reduce the risk of side effects:

• Do not take too much in a day. Avoid taking more than 6 doses of Benadryl within 24 hours.
• Use only as needed. Because Benadryl can cause long-term side effects, be sure to only take it for a short amount of time.
• Avoid other sedatives. Because Benadryl often has a sedative effect, avoid taking it with other sedatives, sleeping pills, or alcohol.
• Be careful with activities. Because Benadryl may cause drowsiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking it.
• Talk to your doctor if you:
  • are taking sedatives or a type of antidepressant called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
  • have lung disease (asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema)
  • you have glaucoma, stomach ulcer , cramps or urinary problems due to an enlarged prostate
  • pregnant or breastfeeding
  • previously had an allergic reaction to Benadryl

When to call your doctor if you have taken Benadryl and are worried

Generally speaking, you do not need to call a doctor if you have taken Benadryl and feeling:

• restlessness
• nervousness
• agitation

The feeling of paradoxical arousal usually only lasts as long as Benadryl is in your system. It can be 4 to 6 hours.

Instead, you could try:

• taking deep breaths or slowly counting to 10 can help you feel calmer
• avoiding other stimulants, such as caffeine or nicotine
• exercising that helps lift your spirits
• try relaxing activities, such as yoga or meditation

Talk to your doctor if you want to recommend alternative medicines that are less likely to have these side effects.

Emergency Medical Services

Taking too much Benadryl can lead to an overdose. If you or someone else has taken Benadryl and you have any of the following symptoms, go to the emergency room or call 911. late pupils

bladder emptying problems (urinary retention)

confusion or disorientation

hallucinations

low blood pressure (hypotension)

seizures

coma

One of the most common side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness. However, some people may find that when taking Benadryl they feel:

• anxious
• excitable
• nervous

0002 It is not known what causes the above side effects. If you are taking Benadryl and are feeling restless or agitated, there are a few things you can do to ease these feelings until the medication wears off. Some examples include deep breaths or relaxation activities.

Health

Dizziness, loss of balance: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Dizziness is considered the most common reason for visiting doctors of various specialties. The fact is that dizziness can be a symptom of a specific disease and a certain pathological condition of a person. It is very important to establish the cause of such a vestibular disorder in order to conduct an informed treatment and determine the choice of prevention.

Dizziness or vertigo is a condition that makes a person feel that objects around him are moving, spinning, spinning. Such a condition, as a rule, can be accompanied by weakness, bouts of vomiting and nausea, which can occur without connection with the disease. This phenomenon is often observed after a long ride on a carousel or ship and is typical for childhood. But when the causes of dizziness are not established in adulthood, this is a signal of certain deviations in the functioning of the patient’s vestibular apparatus and disorders of the inner ear. There is a loss of balance control not only in the standing position, but also in the prone position. Many patients feel unsteady under their feet – “the ground leaving from under their feet”, and some feel a state of intoxication, in which objects begin to fly.

Hearing loss, nausea and vomiting, tinnitus are the most common signs of Meniere’s disease, which can be seen not only in adults, but also in children. It is very important to carry out the correct treatment in order to precede the appearance of neuritis.

Unilateral noise and deafness (hearing loss), bouts of vomiting and nausea may be characteristic of perilymphatic fistula and tumor of the auditory nerve.

Hearing problems, in which bloody or purulent discharge from the ears (otorrhea) are observed, indicate an inflammatory process in the middle and inner ear.

The sharp nature of dizziness with a simple movement of the head, and sometimes with looking away – may indicate vestibular neuritis (neuronitis) .

Severe headache, vomiting, drowsiness, loss of orientation in space, floating images in the supine position may be symptoms of the acute onset of a stroke.

If during turning of the head there is a shooting pain, stiffness in the cervical-occipital region, some stiffness during movement, then this may be evidence of compression of the nerve root of the cervical spine.

The causes of repeated attacks of dizziness can be such conditions as traumatic brain injury and its consequences, basilar and vestibular migraine, transient circulatory disorders in the vertebrobasirar basin, tumors of the cranial nerves.

Some somatic diseases also occur with complaints of dizziness, for example, cardiac arrhythmia, arterial hypertension.

Patients taking antibiotics or other medications often complain of dizziness.

In the Federal State Budgetary Institution NCC of Otorhinolaryngology of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, the treatment of diseases of the vestibular apparatus/analyzer is carried out by specialists from the scientific and clinical department of vestibulology and otoneurology. The specialists of the Center have accumulated a lot of positive experience in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with disorders of the vestibular apparatus/analyzer and neurological diseases. Our Center employs one of the best otoneurologists in Russia, candidate of medical sciences, head of the scientific and clinical department of vestibulology and otoneurology O. V. Zaitseva, who uses not only the most modern techniques in the treatment of patients with vestibular disorders, but also uses their own developments. We advise you to immediately consult a doctor if you have signs of dizziness, as it can indicate serious diseases, a pathological condition of the body and become dangerous to human health.

For effective drug and non-drug treatment, determination of preventive measures, it is very important to identify the cause of such a disorder.

In our Center, patients who complain of dizziness undergo a comprehensive examination developed by the best domestic and foreign specialists. In the Center, the examination is carried out not only by a neurologist (neuropathologist), but also by an otoneurologist. Patients are prescribed vestibulometry without fail, which allows the otoneurologist-otorhinolaryngologist to assess the degree and level of damage to the vestibular analyzer. The modern otoneurological examination of the Center includes a number of sometimes rather lengthy tests (examination of one patient takes 1.5-2 hours). Caloric tests/tests (thermal and cold), rotational tests, optokinetic test, accad test, smooth tracking test in the Center are performed on special equipment with video oculography (video nystagmography). A mandatory component of testing the vestibular system is the Dix-Holpike test (to detect BPPV – benign positional vertigo or BPPV).

Disorder balance function (ataxia) , as a rule, is an integral part of cochleovestibular disorders / disorders that lead to a significant deterioration in the quality of life: people become helpless, lose their ability to work, sometimes lose the ability to move without outside help. In such situations, it is very important to study in detail the vestibular function, including the function of a person’s balance and his ability to maintain a vertical position of the body, to perform stato-locomotor acts. NPOs of vestibulology and otoneurology use diagnostically reliable and traditional tests for evaluating vestibular function, which include the Romberg test, the Unterberger test, the Babinski-Weil test, and the Barani index test.

To determine the degree and cause of ataxia (balance disorder), the Center uses digital posturography. The use of modern equipment of the Center significantly expands the diagnostic capabilities in the study of the statokinetic sphere, allows you to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the balance function. The most modern version of the Romberg test, aimed at identifying statokinetic disorders, is carried out on posturographic / stabilometric platforms / complexes. It should be noted that our Center is equipped with the most modern posturographic complex, which allows not only to identify and interpret statokinetic disorders, but also to evaluate the possible effect of vestibular rehabilitation. In addition, our posturography system is equipped with the function of creating/writing individual rehabilitation exercises that meet the needs of each individual patient, which greatly increases the effectiveness of treatment.

In order to confirm or exclude endolymphatic hydrops (dropsy) – Meniere’s disease, electrocochleography and/or dehydration test is mandatory at the Center.

Treatment for dizziness, cochlear, vestibular, cochleovestibular disorders is carried out immediately, taking into account the causative factor and other characteristics of each of our patients! To improve metabolic processes and enhance regeneration processes, slowing down the appearance of neuropathy, we use a comprehensive and individual approach in the treatment of diseases of the organ of hearing and balance. We use according to indications: vestibular rehabilitation, vasoactive, anticholinergic, neurotropic drugs (including high doses of B vitamins), hirudotherapy, acupuncture.

In our Center, quality assessment is carried out on a regular basis, monitoring of well-being, including recovered patients, is carried out in the most remote terms (even after years).

Thus, during the last year, static ataxia due to the vestibular component was detected in 72 patients during computer posturography. Posturographic test, sensitive organization test, a modern version of the Romberg test, performed in 6 stages: with open and closed eyes on a stationary platform in a stationary environment, with open eyes on a stationary platform in a moving environment, with closed and open eyes on a moving platform in a stationary environment and with open eyes on a moving platform in a moving environment.

The cause of cochleovestibular disorders in 16 out of 72 patients was an acute respiratory viral infection, in 30 – a stress factor, in 21 – an increase in blood pressure, in 3 – sudden changes in atmospheric pressure (during air travel and/or deep-sea diving), in 1 -go – manipulations (roughly performed manual therapy) on the cervical spine, one patient associated the onset of the disease with an inadequate diet in order to reduce weight.

In addition to certain drug treatment, vestibular rehabilitation classes were conducted at the posturographic complex for 3-6 weeks (from 3 to 5 times a week), designed for each patient individually. Also, if necessary, psychological assistance was provided to some patients.

The results of control posturography performed after treatment showed that all patients had a significant decrease in ataxia, which was reflected in an increase in the vestibular resistance index, and in 23 examined patients, the balance function indicators were within the accepted age norm.