In the summer of 2010, at 49 years old, my life changed abruptly.
I was at work when I suddenly felt nauseous, dizzy, and weak. At first, I thought it was just a bug and tried to push through. Within minutes, I could barely function.
A co-worker noticed something was wrong and insisted on taking me to the hospital. I resisted—until the symptoms became overwhelming. The dizziness, nausea, and sensitivity to light and motion were unlike anything I had ever experienced.
The 25-minute car ride felt unbearable. Every movement made it worse. I vomited repeatedly and could do nothing but endure it.
At the hospital, I was completely incapacitated. Even the slightest movement intensified the symptoms. Doctors ran tests, asked questions, and tried to determine the cause.
After several hours, the symptoms began to ease. I was still dizzy and weak, but no longer completely overwhelmed. I stayed overnight and was sent home the next day—without a clear diagnosis.
I hoped it was a one-time event. It wasn’t.
Living With Unpredictable Symptoms
Over the next seven years, I experienced repeated episodes of severe vertigo. Between episodes, I lived with constant dizziness.
I also developed persistent tinnitus and hearing loss in my left ear. The ringing never fully went away, and my ear always felt plugged.
Some episodes were as intense as the first. Others were milder. But each one forced me to lie still for hours until the symptoms passed.
There was no pattern. The episodes could happen anytime, anywhere. I never knew when the next one would hit.
Searching For Answers Without Relief
I sought help from multiple specialists.
My primary doctor suspected food allergies. Testing revealed minor sensitivities, so I changed my diet. It made no difference.
An ENT specialist ruled out mechanical issues in my inner ear. He believed the problem was neurological—something affecting the nerve that transmits signals to the brain.
A Diagnosis Without A Solution
Eventually, I was referred to a specialist in Meniere’s disease.
After researching the condition, I immediately recognized my symptoms. The specialist confirmed the diagnosis.
He explained that while lifestyle changes might reduce symptoms, the condition was unpredictable and progressive. He warned that I could eventually lose all hearing in my left ear—and possibly develop symptoms in both ears.
There was no known cause. No known cure.
I accepted that this would be a lifelong condition.
A New Possibility Through TMJ Treatment
Over time, I tried to adapt. But despite doing everything recommended, I had no control over when episodes occurred or how severe they would be.
Around that time, my wife began seeing Dr. Haddad for long-standing TMJ issues.
After her bite was rebuilt, her condition improved significantly. She became a strong advocate for his work.
During one visit, she mentioned my situation. Dr. Haddad said he had helped patients with similar symptoms.
I was skeptical. I had already seen specialists and received a diagnosis. I didn’t pursue it.
But as I watched my wife improve, I reconsidered.
Finally Taking The Next Step
After seven years of suffering, I finally made an appointment.
In 2017, I visited Dr. Haddad not knowing what to expect. I was simply hoping for answers.
Understanding The Root Cause
Dr. Haddad took detailed imaging of my TMJ, jaw, and teeth. He evaluated my bite and reviewed my full medical history.
Then he said, “I think I can help you.”
He explained that years of grinding and clenching had worn down my teeth. This caused my jaw to shift upward and backward, placing pressure near the inner ear.
Over time, this may have compromised the structures responsible for balance and hearing—triggering my symptoms.
Imaging also showed that my right side was at risk of developing similar issues.
For the first time, the explanation made sense.
A Different Approach To Treatment
His treatment plan focused on rebuilding my bite and restoring proper jaw position.
The first step was determining the correct neuromuscular position of my jaw using precise measurements and advanced technology.
Once established, he created a custom orthotic appliance to hold my jaw in that position and begin retraining the muscles.
Relief After Years Of Symptoms
The results were immediate.
Within the first week of wearing the orthotic, my dizziness disappeared. For the first time in seven years, I felt steady.
My tinnitus decreased significantly, and my hearing slightly improved.
Long-Term Results And Stability
Over the next year, I had no vertigo attacks.
I felt steady, clear, and in control again. My confidence returned.
A Permanent Solution And Smile Restoration
Encouraged by the results, I chose to move forward with a permanent solution.
Dr. Haddad completed a full reconstruction of my bite, replacing the orthotic with a long-term correction. Not only is my bite now properly aligned, but my teeth look better than they have in decades.
A Life-Changing Outcome
The goal was to reduce or eliminate my symptoms by restoring proper jaw function.
That goal was exceeded.
While my hearing is still somewhat reduced, the vertigo is gone, the tinnitus is manageable, and my quality of life has dramatically improved.
Even if my condition does not improve beyond this point, I am incredibly grateful for the results.
Gratitude And Recommendation
I am deeply grateful for the care I received.
Dr. Haddad and his assistant Rachael were exceptional throughout the entire process. Their attention to detail, skill, and genuine care made all the difference.
They changed my life—and my wife’s life—for the better.
I offer my highest recommendation to Dr. Haddad and the team.
Sincerely,
Tim Randall
