[46F] Experiencing ear symptoms, vertigo, and possible thyroid-related issues

Patient Description

A 46-year-old female presents with a hot sensation and tingling in the left ear described as a tugging and prickly sensation for one month, and sporadic vertigo for three months, which is alleviated by closing the eyes and sitting still. The patient also reports a high-pitched tinnitus and a significant hearing loss diagnosed 10 years ago, which seems to have worsened. Nasal congestion and a runny nose have been problematic for a year and a half, with severe congestion rated at 7, and ears popping when blowing the nose. The patient was hospitalized for pneumonia, was told to take thyroid medication but did not follow up with the doctor. Symptoms of thinning and brittle hair, dry skin, and fatigue suggest possible thyroid dysfunction. The patient has a history of heart failure diagnosed in 2021, is currently taking ibuprofen, and reports no known drug allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Meniere's Disease: This is a disorder of the inner ear that can lead to vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. It can also cause a feeling of fullness or congestion in the ear.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to control vertigo and lifestyle changes to manage triggers.
  • Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms can include fatigue, thinning hair, and dry skin. You mentioned you were diagnosed with this condition in 2021 but have not been taking medication for it.

    • Treatment typically involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine.
  • Rhinitis: This is inflammation of the nasal mucosa, which can cause symptoms such as a runny nose and nasal congestion.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers and using medications to control symptoms.

Please note that these are potential diagnoses based on the symptoms you've described. A healthcare professional would need to evaluate you in person to make a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Make an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation.

  2. In the meantime, try to avoid triggers that may worsen your symptoms. This could include loud noises and sudden movements that could trigger vertigo.

  3. Consider restarting your thyroid medication. Hypothyroidism can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, thinning hair, and dry skin. Taking your prescribed medication could help manage these symptoms.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Sudden, severe vertigo
  • Sudden, severe hearing loss
  • Symptoms of a stroke, such as sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; or sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of Meniere's Disease?

Common symptoms of Meniere's Disease include episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. These symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency.


How does hypothyroidism affect the body?

Hypothyroidism affects the body by slowing down metabolism, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, thinning hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. It occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones.


What are effective treatments for nasal congestion and rhinitis?

Effective treatments for nasal congestion and rhinitis include avoiding known triggers, using saline nasal sprays, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids. In some cases, allergy shots or immunotherapy may be recommended.


Why is it important to follow up on thyroid medication?

Following up on thyroid medication is important because untreated hypothyroidism can lead to more severe symptoms and complications, such as heart problems, mental health issues, and peripheral neuropathy. Taking prescribed medication helps manage symptoms and maintain normal thyroid hormone levels.


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