A Clear Guide to Perilymph Fistula
Precision Diagnosis for Perilymph Fistula
Sudden dizziness or hearing shift after trauma or pressure changes? Perilymph fistula is a treatable inner ear fluid leak, not uncommon post-injury and rarely life-threatening. At Harley AVM, our team delivers targeted repair strategies. Urgently seek AVM care for worsening hearing loss, severe headaches, neck stiffness, fever, or neurological deficits. These warning signs demand immediate evaluation.
Comprehensive Care for Hearing, Vertigo & Balance
Comprehensive Care for Hearing, Vertigo & Balance
Abnormal Inner-Ear Fluid Leak
An Overview of Perilymph Fistula
A perilymph fistula is a condition in which inner-ear fluid leaks through an abnormal opening between the inner ear and the middle ear. This leak disrupts normal balance and hearing signals, often causing dizziness, unsteadiness, or hearing changes that fluctuate with pressure or activity.
Symptoms may worsen with coughing, straining, lifting, or changes in altitude, and can follow head injury, ear surgery, or sudden pressure changes. At Harley Audiovestibular Clinic, our team excels in distinguishing it from similar disorders through targeted evaluation. Because presentations vary and can mimic other balance disorders, accurate identification is important. Early assessment focuses on recognising characteristic triggers, monitoring hearing, and guiding safe management to prevent symptom progression.
OUR REVIEW
Trusted by Patients,
Proven by Results
EXCELLENT Based on 112 reviews Posted on Google Diana GranadosTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an outstanding experience with Harley Street Vestibular Clinic and cannot recommend them highly enough. I developed severe vertigo while visiting London, and it was an incredibly frightening experience as it was my first time ever experiencing dizziness like that. I called the clinic on a Saturday, fully expecting to leave a voicemail since they were closed. To my surprise, the office manager, Preeti, returned my call that same day. I was so grateful. She was kind, reassuring, and went above and beyond to arrange an appointment for me first thing on Monday. From the moment I arrived, the entire team was professional, efficient, and compassionate. They understood how urgent and distressing my symptoms were and made every effort to see me as quickly as possible. The vestibular audiologist was exceptional—she took the time to thoroughly evaluate me, clearly explain everything she was doing, answer every one of my questions, and perform the appropriate treatment. I never felt rushed, and her expertise immediately gave me confidence that I was in the right hands. The clinic was incredibly responsive, organized, and genuinely caring throughout the entire process. They turned what was a very scary situation into one where I felt supported and well cared for. I am truly thankful to Preeti and the entire team for their kindness, professionalism, and outstanding care. If you are experiencing vertigo, dizziness, or balance problems, I would not hesitate to recommend Harley Street Vestibular Clinic.Posted on Google erika thomaziTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great positive experience!Posted on Google Carol BunyanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I could not fault my follow up appointment with Dr Aran and his team. He really does take the time to listen to your questions and really puts himself out to set you on the road to recovery . He genuinely seems interested in getting you better. I would highly recommend this practice.Posted on Google Ged RobinsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Benjamin Shaw was extremely thorough in his assessment of my recent attacks of vertigo. I have total confidence in his ability, once I have completed the further tests he has arranged at the Wimbledon clinic, to diagnose what is causing this issue with my health.Posted on Google Adrian LoweTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I thoroughly recommend the Harley Street Audio Vestibular Clinic. I had an appointment with Dr Rudy Palaniappan who listened carefully to me, conducted a brilliant examination and explained everything to me with a future plan very clearly. I was really impressed!Posted on Google EvanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Arun provided an excellent virtual consultation, took the time to understand symptoms and history and provided an initial diagnosis and treatment plan. It did not feel rushed or with any bias. Received comprehensive notes and summary promptly after the appointment. Would fully recommend.Posted on Google shahram zarafshanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Arun Pajaniappane is a brilliant and expert doctor. He was also incredibly friendly, making for a truly excellent experience.Posted on Google Vasile BaltacTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent consultation where both the doctor Arun Pajaniappane and the audiologist were highly professional, attentive, and genuinely responsive to my concerns. They listened carefully to my problems and explained everything clearly throughout the appointment. The procedures carried out were handled with great care and efficiency, which made me feel comfortable and well looked after. I very much appreciated their professionalism and patient-centred approach.Posted on Google Carol lansleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My first consultation with Dr Arun Pajaniappane was an excellent experience. He listened carefully to me & did extensive tests to try to determine the correct diagnosis.
Pinpointing the Cause
Diagnosing Perilymph Fistula
When to Get Checked
You should get assessed if dizziness or imbalance worsens with coughing, straining, lifting, or changes in pressure, or if symptoms follow head injury, ear surgery, or sudden barotrauma. Fluctuating hearing, ear fullness, or sound-induced dizziness should prompt audiovestibular review.
You should seek urgent assessment if symptoms appear suddenly with significant hearing loss, severe vertigo, persistent vomiting, neurological symptoms, or difficulty standing or walking. Early evaluation helps distinguish perilymph fistula from other balance disorders and guides safe, timely management.

How We Assess Perilymph Fistula
At Harley Audiovestibular Clinic, our assessment begins with learning about your detailed history from a senior audiovestibular healthcare professional, exploring sudden vertigo, hearing changes, trauma or pressure events, and symptom progression to identify perilymph fistula indicators. We prioritise unhurried consultations with our consultants, gaining a complete view of your experience.
We advance with audiometry, fistula tests, tympanometry, and high-resolution imaging if needed to confirm fluid leak precisely. Our senior clinicians collaborate closely to interpret every result with precision. This specialised pathway sets us apart, guiding personalised management plans that promote healing and restore function effectively.

Major Insurance Providers Accepted
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Specialist Tests to Assess Hearing, Balance and Inner Ear Health
Harley Street Specialists in Hearing, Dizziness & Balance
Specialist Care for Perilymph Fistula
Every Perilymph Fistula case is different. Your consultant will create a tailored plan to address your specific symptoms and lifestyle – when it started, how it affects your day, and which tests and treatments are right for you.