Question Easy: 👂 A 45-year-old man presents with sudden hearing loss in the right ear. He has recently been diagnosed with a viral upper respiratory tract infection. What is the most likely type of hearing loss he is experiencing?
A) Sensorineural hearing loss
B) Conductive hearing loss
C) Central hearing loss
D) Mixed hearing loss
E) Presbycusis
Question Medium: A 60-year-old woman has been experiencing gradual loss of vision in her right eye. She describes her vision as though she is looking through a foggy window, and she struggles with glare from lights. Which condition is she most likely suffering from?
A) Glaucoma
B) Cataract
C) Retinal detachment
D) Macular degeneration
E) Diabetic retinopathy
Question Hard: 🧠 A patient complains of frequent episodes of vertigo associated with tinnitus and hearing loss. The episodes last for several hours and are severe enough to induce nausea and vomiting. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
B) Labyrinthitis
C) Vestibular Neuritis
D) Ménière’s Disease
E) Acoustic Neuroma
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer: A) Sensorineural hearing loss
Question Easy Explanation: Viral infections, such as a viral upper respiratory tract infection, can lead to sudden sensorineural hearing loss due to inflammation or damage within the inner ear or auditory nerve. According to NICE guidelines, prompt referral for audiological assessment is recommended for sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Question Medium Answer: B) Cataract
Question Medium Explanation: Cataracts are characterized by the clouding of the lens, causing symptoms like blurred vision, increased glare, and sensitivity to lights. As stated by NHS guidelines, cataracts are commonly seen in older age groups and are a leading cause of visual impairment.
Question Hard Answer: D) Ménière’s Disease
Question Hard Explanation: Ménière’s Disease is associated with recurrent episodes of vertigo, fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness, typically affecting one ear. These episodes can last minutes to hours, causing significant nausea and vomiting. NICE guidelines advise treatment with betahistine and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms.
Medical fact of the day: Did you know that presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults worldwide? In the UK, it’s estimated that more than 40% of people over 50 years old are affected by it! 🎶
Quote of the day: “In the symphony of care, each act of kindness is a note, and every healed patient a melody. Keep playing your part, for your music changes lives.” 🌟