Meniere’s Disease is a serious disorder of the inner ear that very few people are familiar with, but that affects between 3.5 per 100.000 and 513 per 100.000 people in the population. This ear disease can occur at any age, though it is most common in adults between the ages of 20 and 50. By having a better understanding of this disease and its symptoms and treatment options, you can be better prepared to seek appropriate care if any of the common symptoms occur.
We provide a wide range of hearing care for those experiencing hearing difficulties including diagnostic testing and referral for medical treatment when necessary. It is important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of Meniere’s disease and other medically treatable hearing problems and to seek medical care early.
What is Meniere’s Disease?
The diagnosis of Meniere’s Disease is accompanied by complaints of fluctuation hearing loss, tinnitus, and episodic dizziness or vertigo. Meniere’s affects the inner ear and can gradually lead to worsening hearing loss and vertigo symptoms. Typically, Meniere’s Disease will only affect one ear, though it is possible to develop the condition in both ears over time.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms to watch out for that could be indicative of Meniere’s Disease include a sense of fullness in the ear accompanied by a sudden feeling of vertigo or dizziness; these episodes can last anywhere from 20 minutes to 24 hours, depending on the severity. Some people will even experience vomiting and/or nausea because of their vertigo. If any of these symptoms apply to you, it’s important to see a physician for an evaluation as soon as possible.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
To diagnose Meniere’s Disease, your doctor will evaluate your specific symptoms and conduct diagnostic tests. In some cases, balance testing, a blood test, or an MRI scan may also be recommended to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.
While there is no outright cure for Meniere’s Disease, there are treatment and management options. These include medications, non-invasive procedures, surgeries, and even changes to diet. Your doctor will be able to make the best recommendation for treatment based on your specific needs and the severity of your symptoms.
Some of the signs of Meniere’s Disease could also be attributed to gradual hearing loss that comes with age. If your doctor has ruled out Meniere’s Disease as a probable reason for your hearing loss, hearing aids may be a good next step. We provide a wide variety of the industry’s top hearing aids for those suffering from hearing loss. If you would like a free hearing assessment at any one of our locations, please contact us today. Our team offers patient-centered and compassionate care for those in need of hearing aids.
Incidence reference: Koenen L, Andaloro C. Meniere Disease. [Updated 2021 Sep 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536955/