What Causes Vertigo In Elderly?

Posted on Tue, 11 Aug 2015

Question: My father is 66 year old and retired from work around 10 year back and not much active and generally remain on bed rest. He is patient of Asthma and had catract surgery. He is also arthritic problem in knee. from last few months he is feeling like vertigo while he is walking.

What is the cause of Vertigo long bed rest?

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Senile changes can cause vertigo

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Senility (old age) can cause vertigo as there is degeneration in the hair cells of the inner ear. We cannot say that vertigo can be caused by prolonged bed rest.

Sometimes medications can also cause, lack sleep can also cause vertigo in the older age group. Fluctuating blood sugar and blood pressure are key at this age. So it important to test his hearing ability now.

I suggest you should see an ENT surgeon for the same. Please do not ignore that this could be because of long bed rest. Vertigo may indicate another problem which can be severe.

Hope this educates you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (3 hours later)

Yes we already refereed to ENT and there is no issue in hearing capabilities and suggested to follow any neurologist.

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (20 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Brain issue

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

If the ENT had ruled out then we should consider more serious issues like impending stroke, dimnished blood supply in the brain. So you should see a Neurologist for MRI of brain. There are good institutes in your city which can find good Neurologist.

Let me know if you need further help.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar