Audiology/Otolaryngology/vertigo during adrenaline rush

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Question
For 8 years know I have been having vertigo with nystagmus during fight or flight responses and intercourse.  This also happens sometimes while eating and during any activity that raises my adrenaline level.  The spells usually last from 3 to 5 minutes.  I have seen many doctors including neurologists from Emory's dizziness and balance center here in Atlanta, but have not been able to get a diagnosis.  The spells seem to get worse during times of stress and anxiety.  Can you please give me some advise or your opinion on my symptoms.  I am currently taking Paxil and Tegretol (seizures have been ruled out) to help control the spells.  They went away for about 3 years but have recently started again when I got under more stress at work.  thanks.

Answer
Hi Jeremy,
Adrenaline can also affect blood pressure, vasoconstriction and heart rate, so my first question is: have you consulted a cardiologist?  If not, I would suggest you do so. Next, another specialist you may consider is an endocrinologist who can determine if there is a malfunction in the adrenal glands in the kidney.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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