As of October 9, 2020, Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) in the United States reported over seven million documented cases of COVID-19 and over 212,000 deaths since the virus was first identified in this country in January 2020 (2020).
Early in the pandemic, the medical profession, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institute of Health (NIH), and both federal and state governments worked 24/7 to develop testing protocols and intervention strategies (pharmacological management and vaccines).
Topic(s): COVID-19, audiology, Vestibular, vestibular disorders
There are over 2,000 drugs and more than 400 side effects that could impact the accuracy of the audiometric or vestibular evaluation and the recommendations made for intervention and management (DiSogra, 2008, 2001).
During clinical trials, incidence figures of an adverse event (side effect) might be extremely low and reported as “rare” or “less frequent.” One person in 100 might report that their ears are ringing, however it could be reported as tinnitus, roaring, ear disturbances, or auditory hallucinations.
Topic(s): Vestibular, drug side effects, audiology, medications
The patient journey for vestibular assessment can be a lengthy process. A 2011 survey by the Vestibular Disorders Association (VEDA) states that, on average, patients consult four to five doctors before receiving a diagnosis. Furthermore, it takes an average of three to five years for a person with a vestibular disorder to receive a diagnosis (VEDA, 2011). By applying new testing techniques, clinicians can scale down their workflow and obtain an accurate diagnosis in less time.
Topic(s): Encephalopathy, vestibular schwannoma, vestibular migraine (VM), Vestibular, vestibular evaluation
This year, the American Institute of Balance (AIB), one of the country’s largest multi-specialty centers for the evaluation and treatment of dizziness and balance disorders, celebrates its 25th Anniversary. Founded in 1992 by Academy Past President Richard E. Gans, PhD, AIB has been a world-wide leader in patient care, research, and professional education in equilibrium disorders, evaluating and treating over 100,000 patients and educating over 7,000 audiologists, physical therapists, and physicians worldwide.
Topic(s): American Institute of Balance, American Academy of Audiology Foundation (AAAF), Vestibular
The mandatory cessation of medications before vestibular testing is debatable. Patients seen for vestibular testing commonly are given pre-instructions that include a request to discontinue medications during the pre-evaluation time; typically for two days. It is unclear if these medication restrictions are based on scientific evidence or on tradition. Here we provide evidence for discontinuing or continuing medications and other substances before vestibular testing.
Topic(s): Vestibular
