PhD defence Mustafa Karabulut

Keywords:  One-sided vestibular loss, Symptoms, Quality of life

"Chronic Unilateral Vestibular Hypofunction: From Symptoms to a Patient-Oriented Measure"

This thesis investigated the long-term consequences of one-sided vestibular loss, a condition in which balance function from one inner ear is reduced or lost. Although many patients improve after treatment and rehabilitation, a substantial group continues to experience persistent symptoms such as dizziness, unsteadiness, and difficulties in daily activities. These persistent problems can have a strong negative impact on quality of life but are often underestimated in clinical practice.

Using a combination of research methods, including literature review, patient interviews, analysis of clinical data, and evaluation of questionnaires, this thesis showed that long-term one-sided vestibular loss is a complex condition with physical, emotional, and cognitive effects. Patients reported difficulties with activities such as walking in the dark, driving, concentrating, and dealing with busy visual environments. The thesis also demonstrated that commonly used questionnaires do not fully capture these everyday challenges.

Overall, this thesis highlights the need for better assessment strategies and more personalized treatment approaches to improve care and quality of life for people with long-term one-sided vestibular loss.

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