Vestibular Assessment in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is a common preventable and treatable disease which is characterized by persistent airflow limitation that is usually progressive and associated with an enhanced chronic inflammatory response in the airways and the lungs to noxious particles or gases.
Balance disorder is a common manifestation in people with COPD which may contribute to overall functional decline. COPD causes balance impairment through hypoxia of the inner ear, vestibular nuclei (which is more sensitive to hypoxia than other cerebral nuclei) and generalized cerebral hypoxia. In addition to musclo-skeletal weakness, visual deficits, vasculitis and poly-neuritis due to accumulation of toxins can occur.
Patients and methods: A total number of 50 patients were included in the present study. They were divided into 2 groups. The control group consisted of 20 healthy subjects with no history of COPD, vertigo or hearing loss. The study group consisted of 30 patients with history of COPD..
Results: Hearing affection and vestibular affection were significantly associated with COPD.
Conclusion: The hearing affection among COPD patients was apparent in the high frequency range. Also, vestibular affection was shown in tests that assessed postural control.

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