Persistent Tinnitus and Facial Numbness After Head Injury: What to Do? - Family Medicine

More Info

---

After experiencing a head injury, particularly one that involves significant trauma to the ear and face, it is crucial to seek appropriate medical evaluation and treatment. In your case, the persistent tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and facial numbness you are experiencing could be indicative of underlying issues that need to be addressed.


Recommended Steps for Evaluation and Treatment
1. Seek a Specialist: Given your symptoms, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) or a neurologist. These specialists are equipped to handle issues related to ear, nose, throat, and neurological conditions that may arise from head injuries.

2. Diagnostic Imaging: You may need to undergo imaging studies such as a CT scan or an MRI to assess any potential damage to the structures of the ear, brain, or surrounding tissues. These scans can help identify issues such as:
- Cerebral contusions (bruising of the brain)
- Hematomas (blood clots) that may not have been detected initially
- Inner ear damage which could be causing tinnitus and facial numbness
3. Insurance Coverage: In Taiwan, under the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, CT scans and MRIs are generally covered if deemed medically necessary by a physician. It is best to consult with your doctor about the necessity of these tests and confirm coverage with your insurance provider. If you are required to pay out-of-pocket, the cost of a CT scan can vary but typically ranges from NT$3,000 to NT$10,000, depending on the facility and specific tests performed.


Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
The symptoms you describe—persistent tinnitus and facial numbness—could be attributed to several potential causes:
- Traumatic Injury to the Ear: The impact you sustained may have caused damage to the inner ear structures, which are crucial for hearing and balance. This could lead to tinnitus and possibly affect facial nerves, resulting in numbness.

- Nerve Damage: The facial numbness could indicate damage to the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which can occur due to trauma. This can lead to conditions such as Bell's palsy or other neuropathies.

- Cervical Spine Issues: Sometimes, head injuries can also affect the cervical spine, leading to referred symptoms such as numbness in the face or extremities.

- Post-Traumatic Stress: Psychological factors following a traumatic event can also manifest as physical symptoms, including tinnitus.


Follow-Up and Management
Once you have seen a specialist and undergone the necessary imaging, your treatment plan may include:
- Medications: Depending on the diagnosis, medications such as corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation, or other medications may be used to manage tinnitus.

- Physical Therapy: If there is any cervical spine involvement or balance issues, physical therapy may be beneficial.

- Tinnitus Management: Techniques such as sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or tinnitus retraining therapy may help manage persistent tinnitus.

- Regular Monitoring: Follow-up appointments will be essential to monitor your symptoms and adjust treatment as necessary.


Conclusion
In summary, it is vital to seek specialized medical care for your persistent tinnitus and facial numbness following your head injury. An ENT or neurologist can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend appropriate imaging, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help manage your symptoms effectively.