Acute Vertigo and Unilateral Tinnitus with Headache Induced by Psychological Stress: A Case Report

Abstract

Psychological stress is a well-established factor in various somatic disorders, yet its role in acute auditory and vestibular symptoms is often overlooked. A 25-year-old woman who developed sudden vertigo was reported with nausea lasting approximately 20 minutes, followed by unilateral headaches. Two days later, she experienced transient right-sided pulsatile tinnitus that lasted about 2 hours. Comprehensive audiological, vestibular, and neurological evaluations, including pure tone audiometry, tympanometry, vestibular tests, and brain magnetic resonance imaging, were normal. Symptoms occurred during a period of significant psychological stress related to upcoming job interviews. Given the absence of structural pathology, the symptoms were attributed to stress-induced autonomic and neuroendocrine dysregulation. Conservative management, including rest, reassurance, and psychological support, led to complete resolution within 1 week. This case emphasizes the importance of considering psychological stress in patients with unexplained auditory and vestibular symptoms. Early recognition can prevent unnecessary investigations, reduce anxiety, and facilitate timely and effective management.

Cite this article as: Dehkordi NM, Javanbakht M, Poursabbagh P, Dehkordi SSF. Acute vertigo and unilateral tinnitus with headache induced by psychological stress: A case report. Balkan ORL-HNS. 2026, 3, 0109. doi: 10.5152/bohns.2026.25109