A Case of Drastic Improvement in a 43 Year Old Male with Severe Refractory Incapacitating Vertigo

Abstract

Introduction: Vertigo is a common and distressing complaint seen in primary care. It can be due to central or peripheral causes, which should be determined right at the outset. In some cases, the vertigo is transient and easily manageable while in others it can be more troublesome and difficult to treat. Case: A 43 year old male presented with episodes of severe vertigo and vomiting progressively increasing since six months. Despite multiple consultations, complete work up and treatment with the standard therapy for suppressing vertigo, his symptoms persisted. On history and examination, it seemed to be a case of Ménière’s Disease and we started him on specific therapy. The patient showed marked improvement within a week and continued to do so at the end of three months despite stopping all treatment. Conclusion: Identification of the cause of vertigo, multidisciplinary management and specific treatment, rather than just vestibular suppressants, are paramount in managing a case of vertigo.