Prevalence of Symptoms Suggestive of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo and Associated Factors Among Adults Attending King Saud Medical City in Riyadh

Abstract

Background Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a prevalent vestibular disorder, marked by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position. This study seeks to investigate the prevalence of symptoms suggestive of BPPV and associated risk factors among adults attending King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, including 372 participants with a mean age of 34.7 years. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, lifestyle factors, and BPPV symptoms were collected through a structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) version 27.0.1, with univariate and multivariate analyses being applied to assess associations between variables. Results Self-reported BPPV was present in 23 (6.2%) participants, with a significantly higher prevalence of BPPV symptoms among Saudis compared to non-Saudis (22 (7.5%) vs. one (1.3%), (p=0.037)). Previous head injury (six (14.6%) vs. 17 (5.1%), (p=0.030)) was significantly associated with BPPV. In addition, the presence of a family history of BPPV showed a strong predictive value (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 14.10, p<0.001). However, other comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidaemia did not demonstrate significant associations with BPPV. Conclusions The study illustrates the importance of considering head trauma and family history when assessing the associated factors of BPPV. It recommends further research to investigate other factors related to BPPV in more diverse populations.