Normal MRI and MRA — What Next for My Pulsatile Tinnitus?

[Heidie]

Hi all. It's been over 5 months since the onset of my self-diagnosed pulsatile tinnitus. What a lonely journey! No MD has really paid much attention to my condition.

The ENT I initially consulted dismissed me after normal auditory exams and MRI; a neurologist really had no clue; and my cardiologist concluded I would be just fine after a normal MRA.

I've tried to just move on and trust in habituation at some point. By now I am able to mostly ignore the PT during the way, but quiet times and sleeping are real challenges -- even with masking techniques.

So, my questions are: What do I do next? Do I insist on additional testing?

How do I find a doctor willing to investigate my PT, preferably in South Florida?

Thank you! Heidi

 

[glynis]

@Heidie,
Ultra sound can check for narrowing in blood vessels.

Also hearing loss means you could be picking up your pulse from your caroted artery.

love glynis

 

[AVIYT]

Do a SPECT scan. Psychiatrists and neurologists can refer for this. It is expensive though without insurance, a few thousand bucks. But it's more in detail than MRI. I still haven't tried it, as in my country I was denied as "it's only reserved for severe cases like Parkinson's etc." but I will travel to the States to get it done if necessary as many tinnitus sufferers can spot abnormalities with this scan compared to a small portion with an MRI or CT scan.

 

[tiniturtle]

I would suggest sending a copy of your MRA to a neuro-interventional radiologist for a second opinion. Most doctors don't know what to look for. I would probably suggest Mount Sinai, Cleveland Clinic Florida, or University of Miami Hospital.

https://www.tinnitustalk.com/thread...d-to-do-to-get-answers-and-a-diagnosis.36645/