Dizziness in children and adolescents

Abstract

Background: Dizziness in children is a common cause for a visit to the pediatric outpatient department. The reported prevalence is 6% to 8% but evaluating the symptoms in children who cannot clearly explain and describe their experience is challenging. Current Concepts: The most common causes of dizziness in children and adolescents—which account for approximately 35% of the cases—are benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood and vestibular migraine. These two diseases and head trauma are the primary causes of dizziness in over 50% of the cases. A thorough history-taking is key for the diagnosis of dizziness in children and adolescents. Additionally, a complete physical examination, including ear and neurologic tests, is essential. Discussion and Conclusion: As the department of pediatrics includes children and adolescents, the number of young patients presenting with dizziness is continuously increasing. This article presents the general definition, etiology, diagnosis, treatment strategies, and recommendations for the management of dizziness in children and adolescents. Further studies are warranted to differentiate the cause of dizziness in children. Moreover, drug abuse related to dizziness and headaches shouldn’t be underdiagnosed at schools or in the community.