Meniere's disease is a disorder of the labyrinth in the inner ear. The labyrinth is a system of cavities and canals in the inner ear that affects hearing, balance, and eye movement.
An increase in the volume or pressure of fluid in the labyrinth can result in Meniere's disease. The cause of these fluid changes is unknown. Possible causes may include:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for Meniere's disease include:
The intensity of symptoms can vary from one person to another. Symptoms usually come on suddenly. They typically involve only one ear, but may involve both.
Symptoms may include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. This will include an examination of your ears and a neurologic exam to evaluate for possible nerve damage.
Tests may include:
Treatment may include:
These may help limit symptoms:
Medications include:
Surgical procedures are not always helpful, and include:
There are no specific guidelines for preventing Meniere's disease. However, to help reduce your risk, avoid the following risk factors:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery
http://www.entnet.org
Menieres.org
http://www.menieres.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Approaching Menieres Positively
http://www.menieres-disease.ca/
Canadian Family Physician
http://www.cfpc.ca/cfp/
References:
American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home.html .
National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders website. Available at: http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/ .
The Merck Manual of Medical Information . 17th ed. Simon and Schuster, Inc.; 2000.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Elie Edmond Rebeiz, MD, FACS
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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