Influence of beliefs about the consequences of dizziness on handicap in people with dizziness, and the effect of therapy on beliefs

Yardley, Lucy, Beech, Sandra and Weinman, John (2001) Influence of beliefs about the consequences of dizziness on handicap in people with dizziness, and the effect of therapy on beliefs. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 50 (1), 1-6. (doi:10.1016/S0022-3999(00)00202-6).

Abstract

Objective: To determine the longitudinal relationship between beliefs about the consequences of dizziness and handicap levels in dizzy patients, and the effect of therapy on beliefs. Methods: Symptoms, beliefs, and handicap were assessed at baseline and 6 months follow up in 76 primary care patients complaining of dizziness or vertigo, of whom 33 were assigned to treatment (i.e., vestibular rehabilitation). Results: At baseline most patients believed that dizziness would have negative consequences such as falling, fainting, or losing control. Handicap levels at follow-up were predicted by baseline beliefs that dizziness would have negative consequences. Significant reduction in negative beliefs at follow-up was observed in the patients who received treatment, whereas there was no reduction in negative beliefs in the untreated patients. Conclusions: Negative beliefs about the consequences of dizziness sustain long-term restriction of activity, and can be modified by therapy.

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Contributors

Author: Lucy Yardley

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