My brother has been suffering from bouts of severe vertigo and nausea/vomiting for 5 months (off and on). His MD has given him antibiotics, phenergan, and anti-motion sickness meds to no avail. He is now seeking a neuro-otologist with whom to consult as he is completely debilitated. The scariest symptom is an extreme drop in body temperature at the onset of the severe vertigo. He has not been able to find anyone who can explain this phenomenon. The ER and his doc have nothing to offer. His body temp falls as low as 94 degrees sometimes. He is prostrate, pale white in color, and experiences changes in sensations/loss of sensation in his extremities when this happens. He's had MRI's and CT scans. They are negative, but is still worried they are missing something life-threatening. Suggestions please? He is a 47 yr old father of three who is increasingly unable to work. Thank-you in advance.
Reply: --------------
I would agree with seeking consultation with an ENT specialist. A neuro-otologist is an ENT specialist who primarily deals with inner ear disorders including chronic bothersome vertigo. An MRI scan is a high resolution imaging technology and is reliable in identifying tumors or certain other serious neurologic conditions such as multiple sclerosis. While I am unable to diagnose your brother's condition via this type of communication, it is possible that he has an inner ear condition for which effective therapy is available through the neuro-otologist.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
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