tinnitus testing

Hi,

Have had a hearing test performed by an audiologist and was diagnosed as having pusatile tinnitus (PT).  My doctor scheduled another test with an audiologist to diagnose the serverity of the tinnitus but did not recommend any other tests.  Shouldn't we be trying to find out the source of the tinnitus since PT is a little more serious than regular tinnitus? My understanding is that the best you can do for regular tinnitus is to try and use coping devices/strategies.  But for PT, the standard of care would be to try and find the source.  Am I correct?  

thanks    

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

Hi and thanks for using the forum.

Pulsatile tinnitus is not that common and is caused by a blood vessel disorder.  The goal would be to find out what is causing the tinitus and if it is indeed a blood vessel disorder, treating that disorder.  It may be that your doctor is trying to confirm the first audiologist findings.  YOu should discuss your concerns with your doctor and ask why he or she feels that you need another audiology exam.  Either way, you are correct in that the goal for PT is to find and treat (if possible) the underlying cause.  good luck.

Bridget