Episodic vestibular syndrome

**Definition:** A clinical syndrome of transient vertigo, dizziness, or unsteadiness lasting seconds to hours, occasionally days, and generally including features suggestive of temporary, short-lived vestibular system dysfunction (e.g., nausea, nystagmus, sudden falls). There may also be symptoms or signs suggesting cochlear or central nervous system dysfunction. Episodic vestibular syndrome usually connotes multiple, recurrent events caused by an episodic disorder with repeated spells (triggered or spontaneous), but may initially present after the first event.

**Long definition:** A clinical syndrome of transient vertigo, dizziness, or unsteadiness lasting seconds to hours, occasionally days, and generally including features suggestive of temporary, short-lived vestibular system dysfunction (e.g., nausea, nystagmus, sudden falls). There may also be symptoms or signs suggesting cochlear or central nervous system dysfunction. Episodic vestibular syndrome usually connotes multiple, recurrent events caused by an episodic disorder with repeated spells (triggered or spontaneous), but may initially present after the first event. Disorders typically presenting this syndrome include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, Menière’s disease, vestibular migraine, panic attacks, hypoglycemia, and transient ischemic attacks affecting central or peripheral vestibular structures.