Psychological conditions in patients with balance problems: Study using POMS (profile of mood states) questionnaire

Abstract

We studied psychological conditions in patients with balance problems using the POMS (profile of mood states) questionnaire. One hundred and eighty seven patients with balance problems were enrolled in this study. At the time of their first visit to our clinic, they were asked to fill in POMS questionnaires. Their responses were analyzed, and given scores for 6 emotional scales. Patients showed a tendency towards high scores. In comparison of the scores of patients diagnosed as having somatic diseases with other patients, patients who were not diagnosed with somatic diseases had significantly higher scores (or lower V-factor) than those with somatic diseases. From the viewpoints of POMS testing, patients with Meniere's disease seemed to be subdivided into two subgroups. POMS questionnaire testing seemed to be useful at the vertigo/dizziness clinic.