Screening for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in Elderly Patients with Dizziness, Balance Problems, and Falls in Primary Care

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the use of positional tests in elderly patients aged 65 and older who visit primary care with symptoms like dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness, imbalance, or a higher chance of falling over the past year. The study focuses on whether these diagnostic tests should be done routinely, even when typical signs of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo BPPV are not present. The goal is to find hidden cases of BPPV and see if early detection and treatment in primary care can improve quality of life and reduce fall risks in older adults. This observational study involves screening elderly patients who report dizziness or balance issues during their primary care visits. Those diagnosed with BPPV receive follow-up after two weeks to evaluate their condition and treatment impact. Patients without BPPV have only one visit recorded. The study does not involve any drug or device intervention but focuses on clinical screening maneuvers performed by healthcare providers. Participants will be assessed once at enrollment and, if diagnosed with BPPV, will have a follow-up visit two weeks later. Researchers will collect information on the prevalence of BPPV in this group and compare clinical and quality-of-life outcomes between those with and without BPPV, as well as between classical and hidden BPPV cases. The study monitors symptoms, balance, and fall history to understand the benefits of routine positional testing in this population. The study is expected to continue until December 2026.

Prevalence av BPPV Among Elderly in Primary Care