Hi, I hope I'm posting in the right place.
I am trying to get some information to help my 38 year old brother. I have had problems with vertigo in the past, so I know what he and everyone else is going through.
I have been doing a lot of research on the internet but can't find anything specific about the strange feeling of being in a tunnel that my brother is experiencing. I also had that same feeling during my last attack a few years ago.
He is having a problem with ringing in his ears. I have found quite a lot about tinnitus. He is having a problem with spinning and the usual vertigo symptoms. The one symptom which seems to be the most bothersome is the feeling of being in a tunnel or just a really spaced out or drugged feeling. I also experienced this and like my brother it bothered me most in bright fluorescent lights and in noisy or crowded places.
What exactly is this? Is this a normal part of vertigo or something in itself. I can't seem to find anything specifically about this even through VEDA.
I would really appreciate your help.
Thank you,
Reply: ----------------------
I would suggest that if you have not already done so, that you and your brother consult with a physician regarding these symptoms. Vertigo refers to the symptom of a sensation of movement, often whirling or spinning. Not everyone who complains of "dizziness" has vertigo however. Dizziness or giddiness can be caused by a wide variety of medical conditions or environmental factors many of which have little or nothing to do with the inner ear. Vertigo on the other hand is frequently related to an inner ear disorder. Nausea, fullness in the ears, and tinnitus or ringing frequently accompany vertigo related to an inner ear problem. Various neurological conditions may also cause vertigo. Such symptoms warrant an initial evaluation by a family physician or internal medicine specialist. Beyond that, an evaluation by an otolaryngologist and/or a neurologist may also eventually be warranted.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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