Hello.
An inner ear problem is a general term for any dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus. This has what is called as the apparatus for balance and equilibrium. There are semi-circular canals which are hollow from the inside and are filled with a fluid. And there are microscopic hair cells on the canals which respond to the movements if the fluid. And the fluid moves when the head moves. If there is any dysfunction of this apparatus, the sensations are created that make one feel as if the room is spinning (vertigo) of the head is being pushed to a side.
You can see the diagram in this web page...
http://www.medicinenet.com/vestibular_balance_disorders/page2.htm
Hearing ability can be absolutely normal. And a dose change of Elavil also does not seem to cause this. Also, it does not show on the MRI (unless there is a tumor).
You will need to do the Electronystagmography (ENG). This is a test specifically for the vestibular functions. You may ask your doctor for the test.
Regards
Thank you for getting back to me. I do experience nausea as well, but it is for very brief episodes. Do you think the elevator sensation is a result of me changing my dose on the elavil? I was told it probably isn't an inner ear problem because it would of showed up on the MRI or CT scan. What do you think? I do experience tennitus, but I saw an audiologist and my hearing is excellent.
Hi.
This looks like a problem with the inner ear apparatus. The inner ear is concerned with balance and equilibrium as well as hearing. You can consult an ENT specialist and get the relevant tests done.
Do you have nausea / vomiting also ?
Regards