Psychiatric disorders in otoneurology patients

Nearly half the patients who are in specialized otoneurologic units exhibit psychiatric disorders. The disorders are most significant in patients who have the chief symptoms of dizziness, complex forms of tinnitus, or sudden and relapsing sensorineural hearing loss. If not properly diagnosed, these disorders can lead to improper treatment, particularly when the illness is a somatoform otoneurologic disorder. Patients who have comorbid symptoms, such as reactive anxiety or depressive disorders, may experience difficulties in coping with the illness. In many instances, reactive psychologic disorders can lead to severe impairment of daily life and work activities.