The Dizzy Child

Dizziness occurs in children with an estimated prevalence of 0.45% to 15.0%. Vestibular disorders in the pediatric population can impact gross motor function development, visual acuity, and contribute to psychological distress. Appropriate case history and focused direct examination can be helpful when determining the etiology of dizziness. Vestibular testing can be completed in children and guide management of suspected vestibular dysfunction. Vestibular dysfunction is commonly seen in patients with sensorineural hearing loss. Migraine disorders are the most common cause of dizziness in childhood. Etiologies of dizziness in children differ from those commonly seen in adults.