Dizziness in the older adult, part 1: Evaluation and general treatment strategies

Dizziness is one of the most common complaints among patients age 50 and older who present to primary care physicians. The evaluation of dizziness is challenging due to the wide range of diagnostic possibilities, including four symptom categories each with multiple potential underlying causes. Although each cause has specific treatment options, general management strategies can be applied to all patients presenting with dizziness. These strategies include use of medications to control acute vestibular and autonomic symptoms as well as vestibular rehabilitation exercises. Difficult cases that do not respond to treatment efforts should be referred to an otolaryngologist for further evaluation and treatment.