Vertigo and balance problems in children--an epidemiologic study in Finland

Abstract

Objectives: There is only scant data about the frequency and characteristics of vertigo in children. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of vertigo and balance problems in children aged between 1 and 15 years.

Method: One thousand and fifty children aged from 1 to 15 years from one child welfare unit and three schools in Helsinki University Hospital District received a questionnaire acquiring about their dizzy symptoms.

Results: Of 1050 eligible children, 938 (89%) or a caregiver completed a simple screening questionnaire, 8% had experienced vertigo and 23% of these it was so severe vertigo that it prevented their present activity. Reason for vertigo was unknown in one third of the children and 69% could name a provocative factor for their vertigo.

Conclusion: Balance problems are not rare in children and can limit their daily activities.