Expert: Dina Q Goldin, Ph.D. - 10/27/2008

Question
I am a generally healthy 31 yo female.  On Oct 1 while on vacation I had sudden hearing loss, ringing and facial numbness on the right side.  I had flown four days before and had been swimming as well.  It progressed through the day to include dizziness and the ringing was replaced by loud roaring.  I went to the ER where I was diagnosed with vertigo and given ibuprofen, meclazine, and an over-the-counter nasal spray (afrin?).  I was told my ear looked fine but I might have a viral infection and I should return to the ER if I had any facial weakness and I should see my primary doctor if I did not improve in two weeks.  I saw an FP on the 10th after only the vertigo improved who consulted with an ENT.  I was then put me on a prednisone burst which help so much!  The only remaining symptom is an occasional low noise/vibration in my ear that sounds like a truck.  I do also notice a difference in hearing when I am on the phone.  I go for an audiology test, MRI of brain w/ contrast dye, and ENT appointment next week.  I am hoping this was something viral, but does the numbness fit with that?  Since I feel like I am nearly back to 100% do I really need to go for the MRI?  If yes to the MRI, is "brain with contrast dye" the same as the gadolinium that I have seen discussed here?  Is there any specific test that the audiologist should do?  Thanks in advance for answering my questions.
-Rachel

Answer
The contrast dye does sound like gadolinium.  The audiologist should not limit themselves to the regular hearing test, where they see how well you hear various beeps, but should also do a speech comprehension test, where they test how well you understand spoken words.  While your symptoms are minor, their combination, together with the symptoms that were treated with prednisone, does suggest that something more may be going on.  I would trust the ENT that an MRI is a good idea here.