A story recently published by The Columbus Dispatch out of Columbus, Ohio, highlights a diagnosis and attempted treatment for pulsatile tinnitus. Unfortunately, the treatment
was not successful, however the story accurately identifies her symptom as *pulsatile* tinnitus and describes the frustrating
and, sadly, common quest many of us experience to achieve a diagnosis.
Her diagnosis, dural arteriovenous
fistula (DAVF) is one we have seen before. It is an underlying cause that can be dangerous if left untreated. According
to Johns Hopkins Medicine, DAVF is "an abnormal connection of vessels in the tissues around the brain or spinal cord in which one or more arteries
are directly connected to one or more veins or venous spaces called sinuses." Also, see this page for more info written for patients' understanding.
There are numerous medical reports and personal stories
about DAVF linked to on our Cured Whooshers page, including successful treatments.
This story is a reminder that each case is unique. Treatment can be complicated.
A diagnosis is only one step toward silence.
Like many in our community, this patient was her best advocate and
wouldn't take "live with it" for an answer. According to the story, she was seen by half a dozen specialists before
her underlying cause was identified.
Our community, especially those of us diagnosed with DAVFs, wishes this
patient the best during her recovery and her continued quest for silence! You're not alone!
As this story illustrates,
it's a big accomplishment to find the underlying cause of pulsatile tinnitus, but it is only half the battle.
"Athens County woman undergoes surgery to stop hearing her heartbeat in her head," The Columbia Dispatch,
Emily Tate, June 10, 2016.
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