Unilateral tinnitus - yet ENTs refusing MRI

[Samzelda]

I have visited already 3 ENTs, and did 3 audiogrames, in the 3rd audiogramme testing (the most advanced since it included Tonal + Vocal), it turned out I have a very very mild hearing loss - my ENT called it noise-induced hearing loss and asked me if I got ever exposed to some sudden loud sound - I don't remember though.

Like the other 2 ENTs before him, he also refuses my request for a MRI or CT scan, he sees it unnecessary.

But I am reading in all tinnitus sources that Unilateral tinnitus often typically needs more medical attention than bilateral and requires MRI/CT to rule out other stuff.

What do you think?

[Wringing1212]

Hi Samzelda,

A word of cation, I recently had an MRI brain scan for tinnitus and it was so loud it gave me hyperacusis and my THas since been 3-4 times louder. The manufacturer GE is investigating the scanner. Meanwhile the ENT s at UCSF tinnitus department said they would never recommend an MRI on a T patient. Rink versus reward?

In hind site I would have never done it. I’ve had 3 on my neck which turned out to be the source. They weren’t so loud. Brain scans and chest scans are the loudest. One of the contributors on this forum suggested an open scanner at 85db but USDA here dosen’t consider the resolution high enough for there purposes. Open magnet scanner, if available sounds like a better option to me.

Proceed with cation!

[Freddy17]

My ENT didn't want to do that. But I went to see my doctor and he had it done for me

[Herb123]

Well I've had an MRI and been waited nag four weeks for results . The tinnitus has got worse probably due to anxiety of waiting

[NicTinnitus]

Hello and welcome to the forum Samzelda.

Although we say single sided tinnitus does warrant more investigation, that basically means GPs should refer you to ENT and not just say "oh, there's nothing I can do". What is being looked for in a scan is something called an acoustic neuroma (also known as a vestibular schwannoma) - which comes with a pronounced hearing loss on the side affected. It's also very uncommon.

I hope that reassures you some. If you have any questions, happy to help!

Warmest wishes

Nic (BTA Communications Manager and Forum Administrator)