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What is Meniere's disease?

Meniere's disease is a condition of the inner ear that causes attacks of dizziness, loss of balance, unusual noises in the ears and hearing loss. It is caused by a build-up of fluid and pressure in the inner ear. Damage caused by this increase in pressure is thought to disrupt the flow of hearing and balance signals from the inner ear to the brain.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of Meniere's disease?

Meniere's disease is characterized by attacks of dizziness, loss of balance, unusual noises in the ears and hearing loss. Additional symptoms may include difficulty understanding speech, a feeling of fullness or pressure inside the ears and …

What causes Meniere's disease?

In Meniere's disease, a build-up of fluid in the inner ear causes the pressure to rise. Damage caused by this increase in pressure is thought to disrupt the flow of hearing and balance signals from the inner ear to the brain. This is what causes the symptoms …

Who gets Meniere's disease?

Anyone can develop Meniere's disease, but it is most likely to occur in adults between 40 and 60 years of age. It is rare in children and slightly more common in women than men.

How is Meniere's disease diagnosed?

Meniere's disease is usually diagnosed after an attack has passed by asking questions about symptoms and a physical exam. There is no specific test available, so a diagnosis may be made over time, once a pattern of symptoms has developed.

How is Meniere's disease treated?

While there is no cure for Meniere's disease, it is often successfully controlled with lifestyle changes, medications, surgery or a medical device for the ear. However, it is a condition that affects everyone differently. In some people, attacks may …

What can be done at home to treat Meniere's disease?

At the first signs of an attack, taking medications early and getting into a safe and comfortable position can help to manage symptoms. In those who experience regular or severe attacks, it is usually best to avoid driving, swimming or …

Can Meniere's disease be prevented?

Meniere's disease cannot be prevented from occurring in the first place. However, treating symptoms early and taking medications as prescribed by your doctor can help to prevent or reduce attacks.

What is the outlook for Meniere's disease?

Meniere's disease is different from person to person. It may progress slowly in some, but quickly in others. Sometimes, it may also go into remission for years or get better on its own. In these cases, some hearing loss or tinnitus may remain …

What factors can trigger Meniere's disease?

It is not clear what causes the build-up of fluid within the inner ear in the first place. However, trigger factors may include a viral infection, migraine, allergy or certain medications, such as antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 16 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Votes: 634 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

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