[31F] With sudden onset auditory disturbance and autonomic symptoms

Patient Description

A 31-year-old female experienced a sudden episode of nausea, sweating, lightheadedness, and a cricket-like noise in her ears. The episode occurred last night and lasted about 20 minutes, after which she felt cold and shivery. The noise was overwhelming but resolved on its own. She did not experience fainting, palpitations, headaches, vision changes, or weakness in her limbs. The patient has a history of anxiety disorder and depression, diagnosed a few years ago, and is not currently on any medications. She has known allergies to penicillin, amoxicillin, and the Z-pack. There have been no recent changes in diet, hydration, travel, or exposure to loud noises.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possibilities:

  • Tinnitus: The cricket-like noise in your ears could be tinnitus, which is a common condition where you hear sounds that aren't caused by an external source. It can be triggered by stress, anxiety, or changes in blood pressure.

    • Treatment often involves managing stress and avoiding loud noises. If it persists, a doctor might recommend hearing tests or other evaluations.
  • Anxiety Attack: The combination of nausea, sweating, and feeling faint could be related to an anxiety attack, especially given your history of anxiety disorder.

    • Treatment typically involves relaxation techniques, therapy, and sometimes medication.
  • Vasovagal Syncope: This is a common cause of fainting, triggered by stress, pain, or standing for long periods. It can cause sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness.

    • Treatment usually involves lying down and elevating your legs until symptoms pass.

What you can do

  1. Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing or meditation to help manage anxiety.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you're drinking enough water, as dehydration can worsen symptoms.
  3. Monitor Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider.
  4. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid potential triggers like stress or loud environments.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if:

  • The noise in your ears persists or worsens.
  • You experience frequent episodes of dizziness or fainting.
  • You notice any new or worsening symptoms.

Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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2 mo ago


People Also Ask


What is tinnitus and what causes it?

Tinnitus is a condition where you hear noises, such as ringing or buzzing, that are not caused by an external source. It can be caused by stress, anxiety, exposure to loud noises, or changes in blood pressure.


How can anxiety attacks manifest physically?

Anxiety attacks can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including nausea, sweating, lightheadedness, rapid heartbeat, and a sense of impending doom. These symptoms can be intense but usually subside after a short period.


What is vasovagal syncope and how can it be managed?

Vasovagal syncope is a common cause of fainting that occurs when your body overreacts to certain triggers, such as stress or standing for long periods. It can be managed by lying down and elevating your legs until symptoms pass, and by avoiding known triggers.


What are some effective relaxation techniques for managing anxiety?

Effective relaxation techniques for managing anxiety include deep breathing exercises, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness practices. These techniques can help reduce stress and prevent anxiety attacks.


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