Question Easy:
A 32-year-old man comes to the GP complaining of decreased hearing in his left ear. On examination, you notice tympanic membrane retraction and decreased movement on pneumatic otoscopy. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Otitis externa
B) Otitis media with effusion
C) Acute otitis media
D) Otosclerosis
E) Presbycusis
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer: B) Otitis media with effusion
Question Easy Explanation: Otitis media with effusion, commonly known as “glue ear,” often presents with hearing loss and a retracted tympanic membrane. It typically occurs due to eustachian tube dysfunction. 🎧 According to NICE guidelines, this condition is prevalent, especially in children, but also occurs in adults.
Question Medium:
A 28-year-old woman presents with sudden onset vertigo, vomiting, and left-sided tinnitus. She reports no recent upper respiratory infections or other illness. Which condition is most likely causing her symptoms?
A) BPPV
B) Labyrinthitis
C) Vestibular neuritis
D) Meniere’s disease
E) Acoustic neuroma
Question Medium Answer: D) Meniere’s disease
Question Medium Explanation: Meniere’s disease is characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss often associated with a feeling of fullness in the ear. It affects the inner ear and can cause spontaneous vertigo lasting from minutes to hours. According to the NHS, managing symptoms includes lifestyle changes and medication. 🎵
Question Hard:
A 55-year-old man presents with loss of peripheral vision and elevated intraocular pressure. He reports seeing halos around lights, especially at night. What is the most likely diagnosis given these symptoms?
A) Diabetic retinopathy
B) Optic neuritis
C) Cataract
D) Open-angle glaucoma
E) Retinal detachment
Question Hard Answer: D) Open-angle glaucoma
Question Hard Explanation: Open-angle glaucoma is a chronic condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure, leading to progressive optic neuropathy. Symptoms like halos around lights and peripheral vision loss are common. NICE guidelines recommend regular screening and monitoring for at-risk individuals. 👀 Timely intervention with medication or surgery is crucial to prevent vision loss.
Medical fact of the day: Did you know that tinnitus, a common auditory symptom, affects up to 30% of the UK population at some point in their lives? Managing tinnitus often involves behavioral therapy, according to NICE guidelines.
Quote of the day: “In healthcare, every small act of kindness is a step toward healing. You make a difference, one moment at a time.” 🌟