What is the effect of dizziness on the quality of life for patients with Meniere's disease?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of dizziness on quality of life (QOL) in Meniere's disease (MD) patients.

METHODS OF STUDY: Fifty definite MD patients were submitted to the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), in and out of crisis. The DHI scores were correlated to age, sex, race, disease duration, unilateral/bilateral labyrinth involvement, duration/frequency of vertigo attacks, vestibular and auditory function, aural fullness, tinnitus, imbalance and functional disabilities. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA.

RESULTS

During crisis, all DHI aspects scores were statistically higher (p < 0.001) than out of crisis. Out of crisis, a statistically significant correlation was found between physical, functional and total scores and bilateral involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

QOL impairment is worse during a Meniere's crisis. Out of crisis, QOL impairment is greater in patients with bilateral involvement.