Question: I am a previous patient of Dr. Krevitt (saw him back in September 2011) and would like to know if I should come in and see you guys. I started having the following symptoms about two weeks ago: dizziness, unsteady feeling, eye pressure, headaches, neck pain, and high blood pressure. I went to my primary care physician who had me do follow up EKG and echocardiogram – both of which were completely normal. I am supposed to go in for an MRI on Monday, but I’m not sure what exactly the doctor is looking for. At this point, all symptoms have subsided with the exception of the dizziness and eye pressure, and it goes away when I am sitting down. Seems to be pronounced when I am looking up, or in bright lights. Would it be best to come into your office prior to the MRI? I’ve never had vertigo, but wonder if that is what I’m experiencing? Do I have vertigo?
Answer:
There are many possible causes of your symptoms, including problems with the inner ear. It sounds like your primary care physician has been doing the right thing- but it certainly would make sense to have a thorough ENT examination. Dr. Krevitt would be a great place to start, but you might consider seeing Dr. Neil Sperling, one of our partners. Neil is a Neuro-otologist, who sub-specializes in dizziness and the inner ear. He would likely suggest an MRI of the inner ear at this time. If that is what you are scheduled for, it is probably OK to see him before or after the films. If after, see if you can bring a copy of the films or disc with you.
I hope this helps clear things up.
Robert Pincus MD, FACS
NY Otolaryngology Group- NY Voice Center
Associate Professor Otolaryngology NYMedical College
Frequently Asked Questions
Your symptoms such as dizziness, unsteady feeling, eye pressure, headaches, neck pain, and high blood pressure could be due to various causes, including issues with the inner ear. It is important to get a thorough ENT examination to diagnose the root cause accurately.
It is generally okay to see an ENT specialist either before or after your MRI. If you see the specialist after, bring a copy of your MRI films or disc for review. Consultation with a neuro-otologist can help interpret the MRI results and guide further treatment.
A neuro-otologist is an ear, nose, and throat doctor who specializes in neurological disorders related to the ear and balance system, such as dizziness. Seeing a neuro-otologist like Dr. Neil Sperling is beneficial if you have persistent dizziness or issues related to the inner ear, as they can provide specialized care and testing.
While you mention never having vertigo before, symptoms like dizziness, especially when looking up or in bright lights, may suggest vestibular involvement such as vertigo. A specialized exam by an ENT or neuro-otologist can determine whether vertigo or another condition is the cause.
Your primary care physician has already ordered an EKG and echocardiogram, which were normal. A neuro-otologist may recommend an MRI of the inner ear to further evaluate dizziness and related symptoms. This imaging helps identify inner ear problems or other neurological causes.
Yes, even if some symptoms improve, persistent dizziness and eye pressure warrant evaluation by an ENT specialist or neuro-otologist to ensure proper diagnosis and prevent complications. Early assessment can guide appropriate treatment and management.
