Abstract

A carefully obtained history is most important when evaluating a dizzy patient. Specific symptoms guide the examination and workup, and it is critical for the physician to focus on associated symptoms, in addition to the dizziness complaint itself. Hyperacusis accompanied with vertigo, may be a sign of superior canal dehiscence syndrome, Meniere’s disease, migrainous vertigo, perilymphatic fistula, labyrinthine concussion, and Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Otorrhea, usually a sign of otitis media, can suggest labyrinthine fistula or labyrinthitis as a cause of dizziness. This review describes the evaluation of hyperacusis, autophony, otorrhea and other otologic symptoms (except hearing loss and tinnitus) in patients with dizziness, and related causes of dizziness.

• Keywords: Hyperacusis; Autophony; Otorrhea; Earfullness; Vertigo;