Audiology/Otolaryngology/vibration in the ear

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 10/20/2008


Question
hi, i just was looking on the website, i'm from australia and have had a vibration problem for about 9 months now, it started every so often now its everyday, and even worse when i have a cold or flu. i have been to 2 ENT doctors and had an MRI which all of these found nothing and i have had a hearing test but i have normal hearing. it is anoying feeling but not painful now.
it would be much appreciated if you could help
thank you liz


Answer
Hi Liz,
Tell me, is there any relationship between the vibration and noise? Do you also hear a clicking sound?  If so, it is possible that you have something called a stapedial or palatal myoclonus (PM). PM is a rhythmic contraction of one of the middle ear muscles.  This can cause a fluttering or feeling of vibration.  This condition will not show up on routine testing.  There is a very simple test that can be performed by just about any audiologist. If this is the case, treatment usually consists of muscle relaxants.  Here is a good website for information:  http://www.tchain.com/otoneurology/disorders/central/opm.html
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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