Which symptom should be reported promptly due to ototoxicity risk with certain diuretics?

• A. Dizziness
• B. Nausea
• C. Persistent tinnitus or vertigo
• D. Hair loss

Answer: (C)

Ototoxicity from certain diuretics primarily affects the inner ear, so when symptoms involving hearing and balance appear, they signal potential damage that needs attention right away. Persistent tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or vertigo (a spinning or off-balance sensation) are the most specific clues that the drug is impacting cochlear or vestibular function. These symptoms should prompt prompt reporting because they may indicate reversible early injury if the diuretic dose is adjusted or stopped, whereas other options like dizziness, nausea, or hair loss are either nonspecific or not typical signs of ototoxicity. Dizziness can come from many causes common with diuretic use (volume depletion, electrolyte shifts), and nausea or hair loss aren’t characteristic flags of inner-ear toxicity. If persistent tinnitus or vertigo occurs, the clinician will assess the risk, check hearing and balance, and consider modifying the medication regimen to protect hearing.