Assessment of Potential Risk Factors for the Development of Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness: A Case-Control Pilot Study

Objectives: (1) To assess whether neuroticism, state anxiety, and body vigilance are higher in patients with persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) compared to a recovered vestibular patient group non-dizzy group; (2) gather pilot data on illness perceptions of PPPD. Materials Methods: 15 cases PPPD two control groups: ( n = 12) (no previous insult, 12). Main outcome measures: Scores from the Big Five Inventory (BFI) personality traits, Generalized Anxiety Disorder - 7 (GAD-7) scale, Body Vigilance Scale (BVS), Dizziness Handicap (DHI), modified Vertigo Symptom (VSS) Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ). Results: Compared patients, had neuroticism p 0.02), introversion 0.008), lower conscientiousness 0.03) anxiety 0.02). There were no differences between BFI GAD-7. than both groups their indicated levels threat patients. Conclusion: showed statistically significant but not controls areas such as anxiety. was increased when groups. also exhibited elements negative perception suggesting that this may be key element driving development Large scale studies focusing area early stages following insult needed.