The cost of untreated vestibular conditions: the role of otolaryngology & rehabilitation

Abstract

It is estimated that dizziness, vertigo, and falls are the third most common complaints heard by physicians from all age groups only proceeded by headache and lower back pain.1 Equilibrium disorders can affect individuals throughout the lifespan resulting from congenital, familial to acquired conditions. The symptoms from most acquired conditions, however, are the number one complaint of patients aged 65 years and older.2 This is further demonstrated by the number one fear of older adults is loss of independence and ability to age in place. This is strongly associated with fear of falling. Given the exponential growth of this older cohort group worldwide, this is a significant and growing segment of the population. This older population is also confronted with numerous medical co-morbidities complicating their management with the increased prevalence of falls. This contributes to considerable morbidities and mortality, with balance-related falls being the number one cause of accidental death for this population.3 This paper will review the high cost of undiagnosed and untreated vestibular-balance conditions, versus the cost savings of early detection, assessment and intervention and the role of otolaryngology and audio-vestibular medical specialists.