MS or Labyrinthitis?

[jenny63]

Hi,  I've had diagnosed MS since 1998 and up until now have been lucky, odd bouts of vertigo and loss of balance but meds controlled it (prochlorperazine) and I got on with life.  Last October I had a serious bladder infection, recovered from that and got a nasty bout of bronchitis.  At the same time my legs decided to stop working.  After 3 weeks I gradually recovered, then I started feeling very dizzy.  The meds were no help and it got so bad that I ended up prone in bed for 2 weeks.  I was dizzy, found it impossible to focus and even turning over was a trial.  I've slowly started to recover, can walk with a stick now, but I am pretty deaf in my right ear and have unilateral tinnitus.  The MS nurse told me that ears/hearing are unaffected by the disease but I find that hard to believe as the cranial nerves are surely all susceptible?  However, reading up my symptoms do seem to match those described for labyrinthitis.  Any opinions appreciated.  

[blkdiamnd]

Hi,

I am a 39 year old African American female whom has been experiencing light headedness/dizziness for the last 2 years.  At one time I had every test imaginable.  MRI's, EEG's, Spinal Taps, you name it they did it.  I have been experiencing light black out moments.  I have never passed out completely but I feel like I could just pass out on my feet.  I have been given all types of meds for dizziness and seizures but they're not certain I am having seizures.. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[jenny63]

Thanks very much, you've confirmed my findings!

Am seeing my GP later today and will ask whether he is of the opinion that I go and push to see the consultant again!

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

MS can cause hearing loss and tinnitus mainly in one ear although the incidence is very low about 5-6%. Deafness can also occur although it is extremely rare.
Hearing loss is associated with lesions in the brain stem and due to involvement of 8th cranial nerve. So there is a possibility that the audiological symptoms that you are experiencing are due to MS.
I would suggest you to seek a second opinion as this will help to put your mind at rest.

Good luck!