Ear Swelling and Dizziness: Causes and Solutions

Dizziness, a sensation of body swaying, inner ear edema, and ear fullness?

At the beginning of August, I suddenly experienced ear fullness and difficulty hearing upon waking up.
I visited an otolaryngologist and underwent a hearing test, which revealed decreased hearing in my left ear.
The doctor diagnosed me with inner ear edema.
After taking a medication called Shilod for 10 days, my hearing returned to normal during the follow-up visit.
However, I currently have increased tinnitus (which I had experienced before) and mild dizziness (not severe enough to cause vomiting).
When sitting or standing, I feel a slight swaying motion in my body.
The doctor has prescribed Meclizine for me to see if it can improve my dizziness.
My blood pressure is 110/72, and my pulse is 85.
The main issue now is the discomfort from the sensation of my body swaying, and I occasionally experience palpitations.
I would like to know if there could be other underlying causes for the swaying sensation.
What other specialties should I consider consulting?

Tina, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/24

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, you should still see an otolaryngologist.
Currently, the symptoms you are experiencing are likely a result of the original condition gradually improving.
Theoretically, these symptoms should continue to improve.
We pray for your peace and well-being.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/08/24

More Info

Understanding the symptoms you are experiencing, such as ear fullness, hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness, can be complex, as they may stem from various underlying conditions. Based on your description, it seems you have already been diagnosed with inner ear edema, which can lead to a range of auditory and vestibular symptoms. Let's break down the potential causes and solutions for your symptoms.

Possible Causes
1. Inner Ear Edema: This condition can cause fluid buildup in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus. The fact that your hearing improved after treatment with a diuretic (施洛得液) suggests that the edema was responsive to this therapy. However, persistent tinnitus and dizziness may indicate that the inner ear is still not functioning optimally.

2. Vestibular Dysfunction: The sensation of your body swaying or moving can be attributed to vestibular dysfunction, which affects balance. This can occur due to issues in the inner ear, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or labyrinthitis. These conditions can cause dizziness and a feeling of instability.

3. Tinnitus: The increase in the loudness of your tinnitus could be related to the underlying ear condition or could be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, or even changes in your hearing. Tinnitus can be a complex symptom that varies in intensity and perception.

4. Cardiovascular Factors: Your reported heart palpitations and blood pressure readings could suggest that cardiovascular issues might also be contributing to your symptoms. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate both heart rate and the perception of dizziness.

5. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can significantly influence physical symptoms. Anxiety can lead to heightened awareness of bodily sensations, making you more sensitive to feelings of dizziness or swaying.

Recommended Actions
1. Follow-Up with an ENT Specialist: Since you are already under the care of an ENT specialist, it is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary. This could include imaging studies like an MRI to rule out structural issues in the inner ear or brain.

2. Neurology Consultation: Given your symptoms of dizziness and palpitations, consulting a neurologist may be beneficial. They can assess for any neurological conditions that might be contributing to your symptoms.

3. Audiology Assessment: A comprehensive audiological evaluation can help determine the extent of your hearing loss and the nature of your tinnitus. Audiologists can also provide strategies for managing tinnitus.

4. Cardiology Evaluation: If your heart palpitations continue, a cardiologist may need to evaluate your heart health to rule out any cardiovascular issues.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and a healthy diet can help alleviate some symptoms. Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine or stimulants may also be beneficial.

6. Medication Review: Since you are currently taking medication for your symptoms, it’s important to discuss any side effects or concerns with your doctor. They may adjust your treatment plan based on your response to the medication.

Conclusion
Your symptoms of ear fullness, tinnitus, and dizziness can arise from various causes, including inner ear conditions, vestibular dysfunction, and even psychological factors. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers and seek further evaluations as needed. By addressing each potential cause systematically, you can work towards finding relief from your symptoms and improving your overall quality of life.

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