Differential Diagnosis for Headache and Vertigo from Loud Noises
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Migraine: This condition is characterized by headaches that can be triggered by various factors, including loud noises. Vertigo can also be a symptom of migraine, especially in those with vestibular migraine. The connection between loud noises and the onset of headache and vertigo makes migraine a plausible diagnosis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Although BPPV is typically associated with positional changes, some patients might experience vertigo triggered by loud noises due to the stimulation of the otolith organs. However, headache is not a primary symptom.
- Meniere's Disease: This inner ear disorder can cause vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and aural fullness. While headache is not a primary symptom, the vertigo and potential for sound sensitivity could link to the symptoms described.
- Labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear can cause vertigo and might be accompanied by headache. Loud noises could potentially exacerbate symptoms in some cases.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acoustic Neuroma: A benign tumor on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, which can cause vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. Headache might not be a primary symptom but could occur due to increased intracranial pressure or tumor effects.
- Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less common, vertigo and headache can be symptoms of a stroke or TIA, especially if there's involvement of the posterior circulation. The sudden onset of symptoms, especially with other neurological deficits, would necessitate urgent evaluation.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome: A rare condition where there's an abnormal opening in the bone overlying the superior canal of the inner ear. It can cause vertigo and sound-induced symptoms, including autophony (hearing internal sounds unusually loudly) and potentially headache due to the abnormal sound and pressure perceptions.
- Perilymph Fistula: An abnormal connection between the inner and middle ear can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and potentially headache, especially with changes in pressure or loud noises.