Hi there I have been awaiting an MRi scan as I have pulsatile Tinnitus in one ear and continuous ringing in the other. My ENT consultant referred me and then the referral didn't go through and I had to nudge them! Finally got an appointment for a C T scan which I am confused about and worried this might be a mistake. Also concerned about the iodine injection that might need to be given.Anyone else had a CT scan rather than an MRI? If so what is the difference?
Many thanks for your support
the charity Tinnitus UK might know, you can call them on 0800 018 0527 or chat online from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday
Thank you, called them today they were very supportive
Hi
I have Tinnitus ringing buzzing for 3 years now . I have had due to other conditions quite a few scans & a few MRI scans I was worried about the contrast dye but It never affected my T it’s just quite noisy so tell them you have T & they will provide headphones - try to relax as much as you can & close your eyes.You will be fine - Good luck
I had an MRI but I don’t have pulsatile tinnitus and it’s in both ears. Good luck with the scan.
I had MRI scans, which were OK. I believe a CT scan is more comfortable in that you feel less enclosed. When I had my initial MRI scan, they didn't use contrast dye, but they did in the follow-up scan in order to see more detail. I was completely unaware of the dye itself, but they always have trouble finding a vein for my blood tests and injections, so that was the main trauma for me. If the CT scan does the same job, I would be happy to be having that. Check whether they are looking for an acoustic neuroma, which they often look for just as a precaution with one-sided tinnitus - apparently a CT scan will not detect one directly but may pick-up indirect evidence of one.
So my recommendation based on your comment "I'm worried and confused this might be a mistake...." is to listen to your gut . In my experience as a bedside nurse of 34 years is to wait . Once a patient voices concerns like this over ANY test it is in their own best interest to follow their own personal instinct. Until you feel comfortable and confident about your own choice I feel this is the best move . No test will give you 100% concrete answers and either way trust is what you need and determination to listen to your own gut will give you more relief than the results of any test .
Best regards
aesop
I have had both for exactly the same issue at different times. The choice of a CT scan is not a mistake, although you might want to ask why they changed from MRI to CT. They both will probably find what is wrong if anything, although the chances are there is nothing serious. My surgeon (I received a CI six months ago) feels the CT scan shows more. Despite the cochlear implant I could have had an MRI, but he chose not to go that route.
The CT scan is quieter, that's for sure, which is good when you are dealing with hearing issues, particularly. Contrast dye can be used with both, and I have had it with both, so you get an IV installed before the procedure, and after a few minutes they add the dye, or in this case the iodine as it provides a better picture of hollow spaces. The CT scan is also quicker and has one or two interesting effects while you are doing it. At some point your body feels very warm and after the contrast you have a momentary sensation of wanting to pee! But you won't. For many, me included, the worst part is getting that pesky IV installed!
I think you can relax and know that this is quite normal testing for the issue you have. Good luck and I hope everything comes back clear. It won't help the tinnitus, unfortunately, but it will give you peace of mind!
Thank you PABLR that's very reassuring.
I had a CT scan twelve months ago because of Pulsating Tinnitus. The results came back with no cause found. The pulsating tinnitus gets louder as your heart rate increases. Anxiety, caffine and alcohol can also make it worse .
ENT Referral 
What to expect at an ENT appoinment
pulsatile tinnitus 
ENT appointment, hearing aids.
3 noises!
