Dizziness Associated With Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Suspected Acute Cerebrovascular Accident

Dizziness can be a symptom of cognitive impairment. Existing literature describes the presence of dizziness symptoms in patients with cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer's disease. However, no studies have evaluated the prevalence of dizziness associated with cognitive disorders. Objective. The aim of the study is to determine the presence and severity of cognitive impairment in patients with dizziness and suspected acute cerebrovascular accident. Materials and Methods.We examined 40 patients aged 60 years and older with a primary complaint of dizziness. The patients were transported to hospital with suspected acute cerebrovascular accident but were not hospitalized due to unconfirmed diagnosis. All patients underwent brain computed tomography (CT). Additionally, we assessed neurological status, performed cognitive evaluation, and examined positional maneuvers. Results. A combination of dizziness and cognitive impairment without signs of vestibulopathy was observed in 24 (60 %) patients. The severity of cognitive impairment ranged from mild to moderate dementia, similar to that seen in Alzheimer's disease. Conclusion. A combination of dizziness and cognitive impairment was observed in 60 % of patients transported to the hospital with suspected acute cerebrovascular accident. The latter often represented a key marker underlying these non-vestibular manifestations, highlighting the need for a more proactive cognitive assessment at the outpatient stage in patients with dizziness and postural instability.