Pediatric Vestibular Disorders

Vestibular disorders affect children

When the vestibular system in children is disrupted it results in symptoms of vertigo or dizziness, oscillopsia or gaze instability, and delayed development or diminished balance and other motor abilities. Children who present with these symptoms should have screening of vestibular system function by a vestibular healthcare professional.

This three part series provides a brief review of the diagnoses known to affect vestibular function in children. We discuss common symptoms and diagnostic tests to quantify the extent of the child’s impairment. We also discuss evidence-based treatments known to improve vestibular impairments.

• Part I: Incidence, Symptoms & Possible Diagnoses – Parents and pediatric health care professionals should be aware of the signs and symptoms of vestibular impairments. This enables referrals to appropriate specialists, who can diagnose and treat them.
• Part II: Assessment – Clinicians can use easy and inexpensive screening tests to determine whether a child should be referred to an otolaryngologist or audiologist for testing to determine whether or not the child has vestibular dysfunction.
• Part III: Treatment – Based on results of screening and/or diagnostic testing, treatment – both medical and rehabilitation – should be prescribed.
• Research: More than 1 in 20 U.S. children have dizziness and balance problems.  Read more about the epidemiology of dizziness and balance problems in children in the United States from the National Institutes of Health.
• Pediatric Dizziness Handicap Inventory – The purpose of this questionnaire is to identify difficulties that your child may be experiencing because of his or her dizziness or unsteadiness.  (Developed by Vanderbilt University)