[Vertigo patient population in a vertigo private clinic in Hungary].

Introduction

Vertigo is a frequent issue in everyday medical practice. Without specific examinations, it can persist, leading to co-occurring symptoms.

Objective

To present our experiences gained at a clinic specialising in vertigo. Method: In this study, patients were enrolled at a clinic specialising in vertigo. Detailed case histories, physical assessments of the vestibular system, pure-tone audiometry, brain CT/MRI, and carotid vertebral Doppler ultrasonography results were examined. To assess the impact of symptoms, the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) were administered.

Results

121 patients (51.40 ± 13.38 years; 72 women) were enrolled. The median onset of vertigo was recorded at 5 months, with a maximum of 240 months. Spinning sensations were reported in more than 60% of the attacks, with a median duration of 1.5 hours. Hearing loss occurred in approximately 30%, while tinnitus was noted in 50%, with bilateral tinnitus being the most common (38.7%). Headaches occurred in approximately 30%, with a significant proportion related to vertigo (81.25%). The most frequent diagnoses were benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (24.8%), vestibular migraine (22.3%), non-vestibular causes (19.8%), and Ménière’s disease (18.2%). Spontaneous vestibular signs occurred at low rates (5%). The head-impulse test was positive slightly more often (10%). Positional nystagmus was detected in 13%, which is a low percentage, especially given the high prevalence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Brain CT scan was conducted in 24%, with 65% having negative results. In comparison, brain MRI was performed in 74%, and 35% yielded negative results. Carotid Doppler ultrasonography showed normal results in 62%. Severe vertigo was reported in 41%, while mild (34%) and moderately severe (32%) tinnitus were the most commonly reported handicaps.

Conclusion

There are various causes of vertigo, including vestibular and non-vestibular factors. Delays in diagnosis and a lack of specialised testing lead to a delay in treatment, worsening the quality of life and contributing to psychiatric comorbidities. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(11): 413–420.