Question: 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. 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 could be caused by various issues, including inner ear problems, which are common causes of dizziness and balance disturbances. Other potential causes might involve neurological or cardiovascular factors, but since your EKG and echocardiogram were normal, inner ear issues are a likely consideration.
The MRI is likely intended to examine your inner ear and brain structures to identify any abnormalities that might be causing your symptoms, such as vestibular disorders or neurological issues. This imaging helps specialists diagnose conditions that are not detectable through standard heart tests like EKG or echocardiogram.
It is generally acceptable to see a neuro-otologist either before or after your MRI. If you see the specialist after the MRI, bring a copy of the imaging films or disc to help with diagnosis and treatment planning. A neuro-otologist specializes in dizziness and inner ear disorders and can provide a thorough evaluation.
A neuro-otologist is an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist who focuses on neurological disorders of the ear, including dizziness and balance problems. They can perform detailed examinations and recommend specific tests like an inner ear MRI to diagnose and treat conditions causing your symptoms.
While you have not experienced vertigo before, your symptoms of dizziness and imbalance could be related to vestibular disorders, which include vertigo. A specialist evaluation is necessary to determine if vertigo or another inner ear condition is responsible for your symptoms.
These triggers suggest that your symptoms may be linked to vestibular or neurological issues affecting balance and eye movement. Bright lights and certain head positions can exacerbate inner ear or neurological dysfunction, which is why your symptoms worsen in these situations.
Yes, a thorough ENT examination is important because many causes of dizziness and related symptoms originate from the inner ear or related structures. An ENT specialist can perform specific tests to identify the root cause and guide appropriate treatment.
