Misdiagnosis And Wrong Referral In Chronic Tinnitus Case

Abstract

Tinnitus is one of common and difficult to diagnosed and treat, especially in case with recurrent episode of  vertigo  . Meniere's disease is one of common diagnosis in tinnitus and vertigo case. Meniere's disease is a chronic inner ear condition primarily affecting individuals between the ages of 30 and 60, characterized by recurring bouts of vertigo, a spinning sensation, accompanied by sensations of fullness or pressure in the ear, hearing loss, and tinnitus, a perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears. While the vertigo episodes can eventually subside, the hearing loss tends to worsen over time, and tinnitus and ear pressure may persist despite various treatments. The disease's progression is typically fluctuating, and clusters of vertigo episodes may occur. Although the exact cause remains uncertain, it is believed to involve fluid buildup in the inner ear, impacting balance and hearing. Treatment strategies are tailored to manage the specific symptoms experienced by each patient and can include dietary changes, medications, or surgical interventions . This case study is about 59 years old lady with underlying DM, hypertension  presented with floating sensation for 3 months associated with nausea.  She also had right ear tinnitus and reduced hearing over left ear . Then , she was misdiagnosed and treated wrongly and treated as tinnitus secondary hearing problem until came to our clinic when Meniere’s disease was diagnosed after full assessment .Her condition improved after treated with high dose betaserct for one month . Tinnitus and vertigo improvement more than 80 % .Tinnitus and imbalance can be cure if proper diagnosis and treatment delivered .