Tinnitus, Hearing & Balance
Tinnitus, Hearing Loss & Dizziness
Ringing or buzzing in the ears, difficulty hearing in conversation, or sudden episodes of dizziness and imbalance can be distressing and disruptive. These symptoms are often related and share common underlying causes. Ms Mushi provides thorough assessment of ear and vestibular conditions, with access to audiology, MRI scanning and specialist vestibular physiotherapy to reach an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound — most commonly ringing, buzzing, hissing or whooshing — without an external source. It is extremely common and affects people in very different ways: for some it is a minor background annoyance, for others it significantly affects sleep, concentration and quality of life.
Understanding tinnitus
Tinnitus may be in one or both ears, constant or intermittent, and may vary in pitch and volume. It is often associated with hearing loss, but can occur with normal hearing. Tinnitus that is worse on one side, or associated with hearing loss or dizziness, always warrants specialist assessment.
Assessment and treatment
Ms Mushi will arrange a pure tone audiogram and tympanogram to assess hearing and middle ear function. Where tinnitus is one-sided or asymmetric, or associated with hearing loss, an MRI scan of the internal auditory meati (IAMs) is arranged to exclude vestibular schwannoma and other causes. Treatment options include hearing aids for patients with associated hearing loss, tinnitus therapy, and treatment of any underlying cause such as middle ear fluid, rhinitis or Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Hearing loss
Hearing loss can develop gradually or suddenly and may affect one or both ears. The cause determines the treatment — which is why accurate diagnosis matters.
Caused by damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve. The most common form, including age-related hearing loss (presbycusis). Typically permanent but very effectively managed with hearing aids.
Caused by a problem in the outer or middle ear preventing sound from reaching the inner ear. Common causes include ear wax, glue ear, perforated eardrum or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Many causes of conductive hearing loss are treatable.
A difference in hearing between the two ears always requires specialist assessment and MRI imaging to exclude a retrocochlear cause such as vestibular schwannoma. This is a key reason not to delay seeking advice.
Dizziness & vestibular disorders
Many causes of dizziness originate in the inner ear (vestibular system). Identifying the specific diagnosis guides treatment and avoids unnecessary anxiety.
Vestibular neuritis & labyrinthitis
Inflammation of the vestibular nerve or inner ear, typically following a viral illness. Causes sudden, severe vertigo often accompanied by nausea and imbalance. Treated with medication to reduce acute symptoms and vestibular exercises to aid recovery.
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
Brief episodes of spinning triggered by head movements, caused by displaced crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear. Frequently treated successfully with repositioning manoeuvres performed in clinic at the same appointment.
Menière's disease
Episodes of severe vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Requires careful specialist assessment and longer-term management.
Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD)
A chronic condition causing persistent dizziness and unsteadiness, often following an initial vestibular event. Well-recognised but frequently missed — best managed with specialist vestibular physiotherapy.
Vestibular migraine
Migraine-associated dizziness that can occur without headache. One of the most frequently misdiagnosed causes of recurrent vertigo — a clear history and careful assessment are essential.
How Ms Mushi assesses and treats ear and balance conditions
Hearing assessment
A detailed hearing assessment including pure tone audiometry and tympanometry is performed to characterise the type and degree of hearing loss. Depending on the results, Ms Mushi can arrange MRI of the internal auditory meati, facilitate referral for NHS hearing aid fitting, recommend an Otovent device for Eustachian tube dysfunction, or arrange microsuction for wax-related hearing loss.
Vestibular assessment
Ms Mushi performs a thorough vestibular assessment and arranges appropriate investigations including MRI of the internal auditory meati and CT of the temporal bones where indicated. She can refer directly to a specialist vestibular physiotherapist for PPPD and vestibular rehabilitation, and provides DVLA notification advice where dizziness may affect fitness to drive.
When should you seek a private ENT opinion?
A private consultation with Ms Mushi means you will be seen within days, with audiometry and a clear management plan at the same appointment.
Tinnitus that is one-sided, pulsatile, or associated with hearing loss or dizziness
Any sudden change in hearing
Asymmetric or one-sided hearing loss
Dizziness or vertigo lasting more than a few days
Recurrent episodes of dizziness or spinning
Hearing loss affecting your daily life or work
Concerns about driving safety due to dizziness episodes
Frequently asked questions
Can tinnitus be cured?
For most people tinnitus cannot be cured, but it can be very effectively managed. Many patients find that with the right support — hearing aids, tinnitus therapy and understanding the condition — the impact on their daily life reduces significantly. Where an underlying and treatable cause is found, treating it may improve tinnitus.
Is tinnitus dangerous?
Tinnitus itself is not dangerous, but it is important to have it properly assessed, particularly if it is one-sided, associated with hearing loss or dizziness, or has come on suddenly. These features can occasionally indicate a condition requiring treatment.
What is a vestibular schwannoma?
A vestibular schwannoma (sometimes called an acoustic neuroma) is a benign, slow-growing tumour on the vestibular nerve. It can cause one-sided tinnitus, hearing loss and dizziness. It is detected on MRI and, when identified, managed in specialist neuro-otology centres. The vast majority are slow-growing and monitored rather than immediately treated.
What is an MRI of the IAMs?
MRI of the internal auditory meati (IAMs) is a specific scan of the inner ear canals and auditory nerves. It is the gold standard investigation for one-sided tinnitus, asymmetric hearing loss and unexplained dizziness. It is painless, takes approximately 30–45 minutes, and does not involve radiation.
Will I need hearing aids?
Hearing aids are recommended when hearing loss reaches a level that affects communication. Modern hearing aids are discreet and highly effective. Ms Mushi works with NHS audiology services and can facilitate referral for hearing aid fitting.
Book a consultation for tinnitus, hearing loss or dizziness
Ms Mushi sees patients with ear and vestibular conditions at Circle Cheshire Clinic, Northwich. Appointments are typically available within days.