Evaluation of probable relationship between depression and duration of dizziness in patients with dizziness complaints

Purpose: This study was aimed to evaluate possible relationship between depression and duration of dizziness in patients with dizziness problem. Methods: This study was included 20 patients between the ages of 20-55 years who were referred to Hacettepe University Otorhinolaryngology Department, Audiology and Speech Pathology Section with dizziness complaints. Twenty patients with dizziness participated in this study. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 (duration of dizziness between 3-12 months) and Group 2 (duration of dizziness more than 12 months). All the patients in Group 1 and Group 2 were administered audiological and vestibular tests. Self Depression Scale was used for the evaluation of depression symptoms in patients with dizziness complaints. Results: All patients had depressive symptoms according to Self Depression Scale scores. No statistically significant difference was found between the duration of dizziness and depressive symptoms in either of the groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: Observed depression symptoms according to the Self Depression Scale-SDS results within patients with different vestibular etiologies must lead us to be more careful while handling these patients. Psychiatric and psychological consultation alongside the physical evaluation of such cases can lead us to more accurate and healthy approaches towards diagnostic and treatment plans.