Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) Calculator

The Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) estimates the self-perceived impact of dizziness on daily life based on 25 standardized questions covering physical, emotional, and functional domains. This calculator helps patients and clinicians quantify dizziness severity to guide treatment decisions and track progress over time. Whether you are assessing vestibular therapy outcomes or screening for balance disorders, this tool provides a reliable handicap score.

Physical Subscale (7 Items)

1. Does looking up increase your problem?

2. Because of your problem, do you feel frustrated?

3. Because of your problem, do you restrict your travel for business or recreation?

4. Does walking down the aisle of a supermarket increase your problem?

5. Because of your problem, do you have difficulty reading?

6. Does getting on or off a bed increase your problem?

7. Because of your problem, are you afraid to leave your home without having someone accompany you?

Emotional Subscale (9 Items)

8. Does turning over in bed increase your problem?

9. Because of your problem, do you avoid heights?

10. Do quick movements of your head increase your problem?

11. Because of your problem, do you have difficulty getting into or out of the shower?

12. Because of your problem, do you have difficulty concentrating?

13. Does walking down a sidewalk increase your problem?

14. Because of your problem, are you afraid people may think you are intoxicated?

15. Is it difficult for you to walk alone?

16. Does bending over increase your problem?

Functional Subscale (9 Items)

17. Because of your problem, are you afraid to stay home alone?

18. Because of your problem, do you feel handicapped?

19. Has your problem placed stress on your relationships?

20. Because of your problem, do you feel depressed?

21. Does your problem interfere with your job or household responsibilities?

22. Does bending over quickly to pick things up increase your problem?

23. Are you self-conscious because of your problem?

24. Does driving in a car increase your problem?

25. Does walking in a dark room increase your problem?

Quick Examples:

How DHI Score Is Calculated

Total DHI Score = Physical Score + Emotional Score + Functional Score

Where:

Physical Score = Sum of 7 physical items (Max 28)
Emotional Score = Sum of 9 emotional items (Max 36)
Functional Score = Sum of 9 functional items (Max 36)
Item scoring: Yes = 4, Sometimes = 2, No = 0

The Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) calculates your total score by summing the points from your answers to 25 questions divided into three subscales: functional, emotional, and physical. Each question asks about the impact of dizziness on your daily life, assigning 4 points for "Yes," 2 points for "Sometimes," and 0 points for "No."

The individual subscale scores help identify which area of your life is most affected, while the total score provides an overall measure of handicap severity ranging from 0 to 100. This method, developed by Jacobson and Newman in 1990, is a widely accepted standard for assessing the subjective impact of vestibular disorders.

What Your DHI Score Means

Your DHI score indicates how significantly dizziness affects your daily quality of life. A higher score suggests a greater level of self-perceived disability.

For a Mild Score (0–30): Your dizziness has a minimal impact on your daily activities. You may experience occasional symptoms, but they likely do not stop you from working or engaging in social activities. Monitoring your symptoms and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is usually sufficient.
For a Moderate Score (31–60): Dizziness is noticeably interfering with your routine. You might find yourself avoiding specific triggers or needing assistance with complex tasks. Consider vestibular rehabilitation therapy and consult a specialist to address specific triggers.
For a Severe Score (61–100): Your symptoms are significantly debilitating, likely affecting your ability to work, drive, or function independently. Immediate professional medical intervention is recommended to manage the underlying condition and improve safety.

Important Note

The DHI is a self-assessment screening tool and not a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Calculation logic verified using publicly available standards.

View our Accuracy & Reliability Framework →