(Neurology)

Overview

• An episodic auditory and vestibular disease characterised by sudden onset of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and sensation of fullness in the affected ear.
• F>M, peak incidence 40-50 yrs old
• Aetiology → idiopathic, viral infections, autoimmunity, allergies
• Caused by impaired endolymph resorption in the inner ear → excess fluid in inner ear
• Risk Factors → positive family history, recent viral illness, autoimmune disorders

Making Diagnosis

Clinical Features:

• Vertigo → recurrent episodes of spinning sensations lasting minutes to hours. Usually associated with N&V. Attacks cluster in groups.
• Hearing Loss → worsens during or around the vertigo spells. Unilateral in affected ear.
• Tinnitus → unitlateral in affected ear
• Aural Fullness

<aside> 💡 Triad → recurrent episodes of vertigo + hearing loss + tinnitus

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• Fukuda’s Stepping Test
• Nystagmus (repetetive uncontrolled movements in eye)