Dizziness & Pulsatile Tinnitus

[ka217]

Hello,

Here's a little bit about me:
28 y/o female, overweight, smoker

I have been experiencing pulsatile tinnitus in my right ear constantly for about 4 years.  I have been experiencing on and off dizziness for the past 2 years, as well as right-sided headaches.  In the past two years, also have had some right-sided facial issues...don't know if I would call it numbness or a tightness.

Last March I had an MRI of the brain done, which revealed several non-specific white matter lesions.  Had a repeat MRI done last month, which showed no change.

I have been evaluated by a neurologist (MS Specialist) for possible MS...have been told he is pretty sure this is not MS...that my lesions are caused by the smoking.  Had visual evoked potentials test, cervical MRI, nerve conduction study on my arms, and lots of bloodwork done.  All were "normal".  

I am thinking about going to my GP to see what she thinks about the pulsatile tinnitus and the dizziness, as the dizziness is starting to cause lots of problems!!!

Has anyone else out there experienced anything like this?  Any doctors out there who might have some advice?  Should I pursue an appointment with an ENT?

Thanks for listening...I look forward to your answers!

[Danera]

Research idiopathic intracranial hypertension .. and ask your doctors

[Piper222]

Had you mixed up with someone else.  What medications are you taking if any?  I've been trying to find a reason to the same questions.  I'm extremely dizzy and the tinnitus is painful especially first thing in the morning.  They just blame mine on anxiety and fibromyalgia.  For me the tinnitus makes my pain worse.

[Piper222]

Is the ringing worse in the morning or when you lie down.  You were on Ativan? How much and for how long?

[ka217]

It doesn't seem like smoking makes this worse.  The tinnitus is CONSTANT...and when I am dizzy, it is much worse.  Nothing triggers the dizziness...it is pretty constant throughout the day.

[Piper222]

I also smoke and have severe dizziness and ringing in my ears.  I had neck surgery 7 months ago and notice the ringing is much worse after I smoke.  I also have trouble with pain all over, sharp pains are worse also after smoking.  Quit for 2 1/2 months and stupidly couldn't take the anxiety of withdrawal.