What Causes Dull Pain Near Left Ear With History Of Neck Arthritis?

Posted on Mon, 2 Feb 2015

Question: I have had dull aching pain near my left ear for years I have a bad neck arthritis,bone spurs, and bulging disc it feels like a constant headache and I have a feeling of lightheadness the neurosurgeon I have seen twice says it is a vestibular problem but my ent feels its coming from my neck

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Orthopedic check-up for the cervical spine. Neck Colour Doppler study.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. This sounds more like a cervicogenic dizziness than a vestibular problem. Ear related dizziness tends to a short duration spinning vertigo rather than an unsteadiness.

2. Get an Orthopedic opinion. In addition get a Neck Vessel Colour Doppler Study done to check if there is any Vertibrobasilar blood supply reduction.

3. There are many tests for dizziness that require direct observation. Many common conditions such as positional vertigo, Meniere's disease, age-related dizziness and drug-induced from any current medication need to be ruled out.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T