Tinnitus getting worse. Need some quick advice

[luvzmutt]

When I was first diagnosed with my AN in July of 2010 I had no symptoms.  It was found on my yearly MRI for the optic glioma I have (I have NF1).  I started having tinnitus symptoms in November of 2010, but the "ringing" was infrequent.  Recently it has developed into almost 24/7, and I have some feeling of fullness.  I'm not scheduled for another hearing test or MRI until December.  I am W&W yearly now instead of every 6 months.

My question ~ I feel like I need to have this checked out, but I am not sure which of my doctors I should call.  Should I just call my GP, my regular ENT, the audiology department at Hopkins or the surgeon (also at Hopkins)?

Thanks,
~Leslie

[MDemisay]

Dear Leslie,

I am not a doctor, but do have a wealth of experience in recommending that if you feel concerned (you should trust your gut) and get an extra opinion of a neurologist. IMHO that's the way to go.

Others may want to jump in here, please consider what Jim and Jan have to say. They are way more experienced than I.

Mike

[Jim Scott]

Leslie ~

I'm not a doctor and all I can offer is an opinion but if I were in your situation I would consult the neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins.  A 'fresh' MRI may be in your future but the doctor is the one to decide if that is necessary.

Jim

[nftwoed]

Hi

  Just an unprofessional opinion, but, the Hopkin's surgeon soon, considering the eye involvement!
But the tinnitus does indicate a hearing loss.

[Suu]

G'day Leslie

Please let us know whatever your choice turned out to be?  I hope you're feeling OK as far as anxiety goes and you know where to come for a shoulder - Here!!

In the meantime as far as the tinnitus goes - try playing soft music, getting your mind onto somthing else like a hobby, movie or even a walk in the park.  I find that if I'm concentrating on the noise in that side then it it seems to get worse but as I find something else to do then it gets put into second place to whatever I've chosen to do. (does that make sense?)

Best of wishes
Suu xxoo

[Kathleen_Mc]

I'd call the surgeon, just my two cents
Kathleen

[luvzmutt]

Just a quick follow-up, and a "thank you" to everyone who chimed in...

I went to the ENT (actually the nurse practicioner), it was the easiest to get an appointment.  My ears are clear.  I tried a 6 day med pack, no change in the tinnitus.  I am going to go back and get a hearing test, once again, there will be no wait for an appointment.  She also agreed that I should see a surgeon.   

Will update again.

~Leslie

[Chances3]

Hi Leslie,

I suffer greatly from Tinnitus, it has become worse since my surgery in 2010.  Here is what I do to keep it as mangeable as possible.  I take a diuretic ( need a prescription ), I stay away from nitrites, sulphides, sodium, MSG and any other food preservatives related to that family.  I also stay away from caffeine and alcohol and I don't take aspirin.  You should keep a log of what your diet is, and see if certain foods make the sound louder the next day.  I found out that wine vinegar added to my ring the next day.  Get a small spiral pad and log into it the diet and see if anything is triggering it, or making it worse. I try to get quality sleep, that seems to help as well.

Concerning your medical situation, I would complain like hell until they get you another MRI (insurance approved of course), and keep bothering the neurosurgeon.