Meniere’s Disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that affects both hearing and balance. It is characterised by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. While the exact cause remains unclear, understanding its symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options is key to managing this condition effectively.
What is Meniere’s Disease?
Meniere’s Disease involves abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear, specifically in a structure called the endolymphatic sac. This disrupts the normal balance and hearing functions of the ear. The condition typically affects one ear but can occasionally involve both. Meniere’s is considered a progressive condition, meaning symptoms may worsen over time.
Symptoms of Meniere’s Disease
The hallmark symptoms of Meniere’s Disease include:
- Vertigo: Sudden episodes of severe dizziness lasting 20 minutes to several hours, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Hearing Loss: Typically fluctuates in the early stages but can become permanent as the condition progresses.
- Tinnitus: A persistent ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in the affected ear.
- Aural Fullness: A feeling of pressure or fullness in the affected ear.
Symptoms often occur in clusters, known as “attacks,” with periods of remission in between. The frequency and severity of attacks can vary greatly between individuals.
How Common is Meniere’s Disease?
Meniere’s Disease is relatively rare, affecting approximately 0.2% of the population. It is most commonly diagnosed in adults between the ages of 40 and 60, but it can occur at any age. Both men and women are equally affected.
Diagnosing Meniere’s Disease
Diagnosis of Meniere’s Disease requires a combination of clinical history, audiological testing, and ruling out other conditions:
- Clinical History:
- Detailed account of vertigo episodes, hearing changes, and other symptoms.
- Identification of any triggers or patterns.
- Audiological Tests:
- Pure-Tone Audiometry: Often reveals low-frequency sensorineural hearing loss.
- Speech Discrimination Tests: Evaluate the clarity of hearing.
- Vestibular Testing:
- Videonystagmography (VNG): Assesses balance function and eye movement.
- Electrocochleography (ECoG): Detects abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear.
- Imaging Studies:
- MRI may be used to rule out other conditions such as acoustic neuroma or multiple sclerosis.
Treatment Options & Outcomes
While there is no cure for Meniere’s Disease, a variety of treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Reducing salt intake to minimise fluid retention.
- Avoiding triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, and stress.
- Medications:
- Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup.
- Anti-nausea medications and vestibular suppressants to control vertigo during attacks.
- Rehabilitation:
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) to improve balance and reduce dizziness.
- Invasive Treatments:
- Injections: Intratympanic steroid or gentamicin injections to reduce vertigo.
- Surgical Options: In severe cases, procedures such as endolymphatic sac decompression or vestibular nerve section may be considered.
With appropriate management, many patients experience significant relief and are able to lead active lives. However, the condition can have a variable course, and some individuals may experience persistent symptoms.
Meniere’s Disease is a complex condition that can impact both hearing and balance. Early diagnosis and personalised treatment strategies are crucial for managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life. If you experience recurring vertigo, hearing changes, or tinnitus, seek guidance from a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored care.
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