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Diagnosis of Meniere's Disease

 Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear. It is also known as idiopathicendolymphatic hydrops and it is the most common cause of dizziness. The disease was first described in 1861 by French physician Prosper Meniere.

The symptoms of Meniere’s disease can occur suddenly on a daily basis or even just once a year. Symptoms include vertigo, tinnitus, loss of hearing, pressure in affected ear, headaches, abdominal discomfort and diarrhea. Nausea and vomiting often occurs with the vertigo. Several attacks may occur within a short period of time, but sometimes there may be years between attacks.

Meniere’s disease only affects 0.2% of the population. It affects men and women equally and usually begins between the ages of 20 and 50. Progressive hearing loss may occur over time. It is not contagious, nor is it fatal, but it is a chronic condition.

There are several tests used in the diagnosis of Meniere’s disease. An audiometric examination or hearing test is performed to detect a sensory type of hearing loss. Balance function is tested with an Electronystagmograph and rotational testing or balance platform. An Electrocochleopgraphy (ECoG) shows increased inner ear fluid pressure. Other tests used to diagnose Meniere’s disease include an auditory brainstem response (ABR), computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment includes many things including a change in diet. It is important to limit salt intake, get plenty of sleep, eat properly and to remain physically active. Diuretics and limiting caffeine and alcohol may also help. Other things to avoid include excessive fatigue, smoking and stress.

There are many complications associated with Meniere’s disease. The disease produces an increased risk of falling and also an increased risk of accidents while driving a vehicle or operating heavy machinery. It can also cause permanent partial or total hearing loss in the affected ear. There is also an increased risk of depression and anxiety from living with this disease.
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By: C.Olvera
Published: 01/29/08


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2 Posted Comments:

Ménière's syndrome

@ 2:55 pm 02/04/08 by Alan Bird
Thank you for a succinct summary of a suite of complex symptoms which have been troubling me for several months.
Finally, a specialist here (in Switzerland) is sympathetic and my medication ("Betaserc") has reduced the range, volume and pitch of the tinnitus noises and I have fewer episodes of the totally unnerving and incapacitating nausea and vertigo.
I am unsure, though for how long the condition persists. It is the fatigue, loss of concentration and suddenness of the vertigo attacks which limit my confidence in driving a car for long distances.
I'm 57, a non-smoker and normally healthy.
Can I look forward to some relief, soon?
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Meniere's Disease

@ 10:54 am 03/23/08 by Lisa Hardman
hi i was just wondering if someone could help me.......i have a friend with Meniere's Disease and vertigo does he have to let the dvla know by law?????
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