Vertigo and Dizziness in adults : triage

Vertigo is a complex syndrome rather than a standalone disease, characterized by a disorienting sensation of spinning or movement that stems from various causes and underlying mechanisms. It's one of the most frequent complaints in medical practice, with a significant portion of the population—around 20% to 30%—experiencing vertigo at some point in their lives. This high prevalence makes vertigo a common reason for patients to seek medical attention, not only from neurologists but from general physicians as well. Despite its commonality, patients often journey through consultations with multiple healthcare providers before receiving a definitive diagnosis and starting treatment.

The origins of vertigo can be broadly categorized into peripheral and central sources, with the former accounting for about 80% of cases and the latter around 20%. Among peripheral causes, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) stands out as the predominant type. This differentiation between peripheral and central causes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management, underscoring the need for a thorough understanding of vertigo’s multifaceted nature by clinicians.

Dizziness is a broad term that encompasses a range of sensations, including lightheadedness, feeling faint, and a sense of imbalance. Unlike vertigo, which specifically refers to the illusion of movement, dizziness can be...