The dizzying cycle: a qualitative study showing the effects of vestibular disorders and stress on work experience

Abstract

Objective

Quantitative studies have explored the work abilities of persons with specific vestibular-related symptoms, but there seems to be a dearth of research that has explored the work experience of persons-with- vestibular- disorders, so this qualitative study explored this phenomenon.

Design

Audio-recorded semi-structured interviews were conducted online. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcripts. Together, two researchers coded the transcripts and deductively identified the main themes on the main components of the expanded International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health scheme, and thereafter generated the sub-themes inductively.

Study sample

Fourteen people with various vestibular disorders and occupations in South Africa participated in the study.

Results

Participants reported having difficulty performing work-related tasks requiring attention to detail and ambulation, and work environmental conditions triggered their vestibular-related symptoms. Some participants received time off from work and support from their supervisors and colleagues, while others did not. Seeking mental services allowed them to overcome their negative feelings, medication suppressed their vestibular-related symptoms, and vestibular rehabilitation allowed them to focus on their work.

Conclusion

Vestibular-related symptoms may hinder persons- with- vestibular- disorders from completing and participating in work-related activities, which may result in them experiencing negative feelings. The nature of some of the work-related tasks that they need to complete and experiencing negative feelings may trigger their vestibular-related symptoms. Together, the work-related activity limitations, participation restrictions, and environmental and personal factors may cause persons- with- vestibular- disorders to experience disability in their workplaces. To prevent this potential disability, persons with vestibular disorders should be supported by and receive workplace accommodations. Furthermore, they should be enrolled into work rehabilitation programmes that include, vestibular rehabilitation, medication regimens, and mental health services.

Keywords:

• Persons-with-vestibular-disorders
• work experiences
• expanded ICF scheme
• disability
• South Africa

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).