The Context
A patient with chronic dizziness presented to Pindrop Hearing after searching online for a specific vestibular function test. Despite having undergone assessment within an NHS specialist Audio-Vestibular Medicine clinic, he left without a clear diagnosis. His results were described as inconclusive and did not correlate with his reported left-sided symptoms.
The Challenge
The referring NHS team had recommended vestibular physiotherapy but were unable to confirm a definitive underlying vestibular pathology. For the patient, this lack of diagnostic clarity resulted in continued uncertainty and difficulty accessing targeted rehabilitation.
The Approach
Pindrop Hearing’s audiologist Harry Akram, with over 15 years of NHS and specialist vestibular experience, began the assessment from first principles. After revisiting the patient’s history in detail, Harry performed the specific vestibular function test the patient had initially sought using Pindrop Hearing’s advanced diagnostic technology to re-examine the suspected asymmetry.
The test results clearly confirmed a left-sided vestibular weakness, providing the diagnostic certainty the patient had been seeking.
The Outcome
The patient described feeling “greatly reassured” by the clarity and efficiency of the process. In his feedback, he highlighted several key aspects that differentiated his experience at Pindrop Hearing:
- Immediate response to his initial enquiry (within one business day)
- Appointment confirmed and completed within 48 hours
- Professional and attentive explanation of testing and results
- Same-day reporting, including written summary and recommendations
- Exceptional clinical environment and value for money
Patient Testimonial
“The appointment itself was a test series with high-end tech administered by a very professional and attentive specialist who explained the process and afterwards the results and their impacts.”
“Even before I arrived home, the test results and covering letter had already been sent to me — that’s how efficient this company is.”
Clinical Reflection
This case highlights the value of independent vestibular testing in clarifying ambiguous or conflicting results. By combining detailed case history with targeted diagnostics, clinicians can deliver reassurance, confirm site-of-lesion, and guide appropriate rehabilitation or onward referral.
About the Clinician
Harry Akram, Audiologist – Pindrop Hearing, Harley Street
Harry brings over 15 years of clinical experience across NHS and private sectors, including leading the nationally recognised BPPV Service at UCLH. His specialisms include vestibular diagnostics and rehabilitation, tinnitus management, and complex audiological assessment.
Career Summary
- Audiology Diagnostics Team Lead, UCLH NHS Trust (2022–2023)
- Advanced Audiologist, UCLH NHS Trust (2015–2022)
- Senior Audiologist, UCLH NHS Trust (2012–2015)
- Senior Audiologist, Royal Free London NHS Trust (2010–2012)
- Audiologist, Gateshead Health NHS Trust (2007–2010)
Harry also lectures at the UCL Ear Institute, mentoring both BSc and MSc Audiology students.
