Former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff was hospitalized on February 21, 2025, at the Shanghai East International Medical Center, after experiencing severe symptoms related to vestibular neuritis, leading to intense bouts of vertigo and other complications.
The hospitalization was officially announced on February 24, with Rousseff’s communication team providing updates on her condition. They reported, "Dilma Rousseff passes well and has maintained her work activities normally during her hospitalization. The president thanks the messages of support and solidarity received." This statement emphasized her continued engagement with work even within the confines of the medical facility.
Vestibular neuritis is primarily characterized by inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain and plays a significant role in maintaining balance. According to otoneurologist Dr. Márcio Salmito, "When inflamed, it causes misinterpretation of balance-related information, which can result in severe disorientation." Rousseff reportedly presented with high blood pressure, vomiting, and dizziness, symptoms often associated with this condition.
"Patients describe neuritis vestibular as the worst feeling they have ever experienced," Salmito remarked, highlighting the distress it can cause. The disease most frequently results from viral infections, including common illnesses like influenza and even COVID-19. Salmito noted the occurrence of such infections can often go unnoticed until symptoms manifest suddenly.
Currently, Rousseff is not alone; numerous individuals experience this acute condition each year, which may seem deceptively mild but can significantly disrupt daily life. The resemblance between vestibular neuritis and other disorders like labirintitis can complicate diagnoses. While both conditions lead to dizziness, vestibular neuritis does not involve significant auditory symptoms such as hearing loss or tinnitus.
Recovery from vestibular neuritis typically entails symptomatic treatment. Salmito explained, "Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and may require vestibular rehabilitation exercises, which help patients regain balance and coordination through specific activities." Although recovery periods can vary, many people experience improvement within days, but some cases may lead to longer-lasting imbalances and discomfort, particularly among older adults.
At 77 years old, Rousseff may face heightened risks of lasting effects from this condition due to reduced compensatory mechanisms within her vestibular systems, making her recovery particularly noteworthy. On her role as the current president of the New Development Bank (NDB), Salmito noted, "The age factor can be significant; as we get older, the body's ability to compensate for damage diminishes, potentially prolonging the recovery process."
Since taking office at the NDB, Rousseff has managed significant responsibilities, including financing major infrastructure projects across BRICS nations. This role places her under considerable stress, which could have contributed to her health decline.
While attention is placed on Rousseff's recovery, the public's messages of support signify broader admiration for her long-standing contributions to Brazilian politics and economic development initiatives as well as her current involvement with the NDB. Many sectors are observing her situation closely, recognizing its potential impact on both her health and her pivotal role at the bank.
With expectations voiced for her to be discharged soon, Rousseff’s case sheds light on vestibular neuritis and its effects, emphasizing the need for awareness about its origins and manifestations. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures, who often balance health issues against their demanding roles.
Public health experts advocate for increased awareness of vestibular disorders, as they can often take individuals by surprise. Salmito concludes, "Preventive measures focus primarily on good hygiene and avoiding outbreaks of viral infections, but anyone can be affected, so it's important to recognize the symptoms early on for effective treatment."
Rousseff's health situation reminds us of the reality faced by numerous individuals dealing with similar conditions, urging society to cultivate greater empathy and support for those affected.