Altered Body Composition in Dizziness and Vestibular Dysfunction: Insights From the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

BACKGROUND

Body composition disorders such as sarcopenia, obesity, and osteoporosis are common; however, the body composition of patients with dizziness and vestibular dysfunction (VD) has not been thoroughly assessed.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 9,682 participants aged over 40. Based on the results of a dizziness questionnaire and modified Romberg test, they were classified into three groups: dizziness associated with VD, dizziness without VD, and controls. A body composition analysis focused on muscles, bones, and fats.

RESULTS

Multivariate regression analysis revealed that sarcopenia was associated with a higher risk of dizziness with VD when compared to dizziness without VD (odds ratio [OR], 1.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-2.49; P = 0.017) and the control group (OR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.28-2.88; P = 0.002). The proportions of bone mineral and fat were comparable among the groups.

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia was found to be significantly associated with dizziness in the group with VD but not in those without it. While this study does not establish a causal relationship, maintaining muscle mass through proper diet and physical activity may be beneficial for individuals with VD. Such efforts could help manage overall health, potentially reducing risks associated with sarcopenia and improving balance. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to explore the potential causal pathways between VD and sarcopenia.