Persons engaged in special occupations rely heavily on the vestibular system for spatial orientation under non-terrestrial conditions. These include professional divers, aircraft pilots, and seamen. Vestibular symptoms in these populations might result from the entire known spectrum of inner ear diseases. In addition, disequilibrium, vertigo, hearing loss and autonomic symptoms might stem from the specific conditions to which such individuals are exposed. Inner ear barotrauma, inner ear decompression sickness, motion sickness, and mal de debarquement are discussed with special reference to the use of various vestibular function tests for patient diagnosis and management. Professional divers and aircraft pilots may be subjected to rapid and large changes in ambient pressure with increased risk to previously damaged vestibular and cochlear systems. Spatial disorientation and acute vertigo represent a life-threatening hazard, not only for the submersed diver and the pilot flying a sophisticated aircraft, but also for other people dependent on their abilities, such as diving companions or airline passengers. On the other hand, significant consideration should be given to the high investment on the part of the individual and society in such highly professional careers. The role of vestibular testing in the evaluation and follow-up of such patients and the decision about compatibility with a highly demanding profession are discussed.

Keywords:
Inner ear, Decompression sickness, Barotrauma, Motion sickness, Vestibular function tests, Posturography, Electronystagmography, Rotatory chair, Diving
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel
2002
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.