Vertigo affects different ages in different ways.
Understanding these differences helps guide the right treatment.
Differences between vertigo in adults and children
While vertigo is a common ailment in adults, especially older adults, it is much less common in children. There are notable distinctions in terms of causes, symptoms, and management. In this article, we’ll explore these variations to help you better understand vertigo in adults versus children.
Key differences
Causes
While adults often experience vertigo due to conditions like BPPV or Meniere’s disease, children are more likely to have vertigo related to inner ear infections or migraines.
Symptoms
Children may have difficulty articulating their symptoms compared to adults, and vertigo in children may present with more general complaints of dizziness.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis and treatment in children may require specialised care from pediatric healthcare providers who are experienced in assessing and managing pediatric vestibular disorders.
Vertigo in Adults
Causes
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause in adults, often triggered by changes in head position.
Other causes include vestibular neuritis, Meniere’s disease, migraines, inner ear infections, medications, and neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or acoustic neuroma.
Symptoms
Sensation of spinning or whirling
Nausea and vomiting
Sweating
Balance problems
Difficulty walking or standing
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Blurred vision
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, including medical history, physical examination, and possibly hearing and balance tests.
Treatment options may include medications, canalith repositioning maneuvers (such as the Epley maneuver for BPPV), vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
Vertigo in Children
Causes
Causes may include migraine related vertigo, head injuries and concussion and less commonly neurological conditions.
Symptoms
Children may have difficulty describing their symptoms accurately.
Vertigo in children may manifest as complaints of dizziness, spinning, or feeling unsteady.
Nausea and vomiting may also occur.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis involves a careful assessment by a pediatrician or pediatric otolaryngologist, including a review of medical history, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies or balance testing.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, management of underlying conditions (such as treating infections or migraines), and vestibular rehabilitation if appropriate.
Vertigo can affect individuals of all ages, but the causes, symptoms, and management strategies may vary between adults and children. If you or your child is experiencing vertigo symptoms, it’s essential to seek evaluation and guidance from a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Ready to take the first step toward steady, confident movement?
Ph 0508 VERTIGO
0508 837 844
344 Otumoetai Road, Tauranga