Vestibular problems are a lesser\u2011known yet important factor contributing to falls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If illness or injury damages the vestibular system, a person may feel dizzy, off\u2011balance, confused about their position in space, or experience spinning sensations. These symptoms can put them at risk of falling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sources of support<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n NHS Lothian ENT Balance Clinic<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This is a specialised multidisciplinary clinic to investigate those who do not have BPPV and where history and examination makes an otological condition likely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Multiple studies have shown that in patients referred to Balance Clinics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n ENT specialists, a specialist Vestibular Audiologist and access to a balance physiotherapist, hearing tests and other Audiology services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the history and examination, it may be advisable to exclude anaemia, diabetes or thyroid disorder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The history is key, with four main groups of patients:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The ENT balance team will ask patients to complete a symptom questionnaire online prior to being given an appointment, with the option of a phone call for those who cannot manage this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Further information and referral guidance is available on the following Refhelp pages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n ENT Dizziness and Balance \u2013 RefHelp<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) – RefHelp<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dizziness & Balance (MoE) \u2013 RefHelp<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vertigo and dizziness \u2013 RefHelp<\/a> PDF: Vertigo and dizziness- advice for initial management in primary care<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Useful links<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Causes of falls | NHS inform<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Labyrinthitis | NHS inform<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Vertigo | NHS inform<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n All Can Fall – Vestibular Disorders Association<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The importance of falls Prevention and the Link to Vestibular Issues – Longevity Physiotherapy<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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