The unpredictable nature of this disease makes managing it challenging. It also complicates the ability of scientists and physicians to study it. See your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of Meniere’s disease. So, it’s important to find out what’s causing your symptoms as soon as possible.
Another less conservative treatment method involves surgery. The goal of the first type is to relieve the pressure on the inner ear. Surgery to reduce pressure is not as widely used now as it was in the past due to questions about its long-term effectiveness. To “cure” a disease means to eliminate the root cause of the disease and reverse the damage it has inflicted (on the inner ear, in this case). Symptoms of Meniere’s disease may be due to extra fluid in the inner ear called endolymph. But it isn’t clear what causes this fluid to build up in the inner ear.
Sometimes keeping the eyes open and fixed on a stationary object about 18 inches away is helpful. In order to control dehydration, a doctor should be called if fluid intake is not possible over time due to persistent vomiting. Ménière’s disease may start with fluctuating hearing loss, eventually progressing to attacks of vertigo and dizziness.
Small electrodes are gently attached to several positions on the skin along the outer sides of your eyes. (There are several ways of attaching these measuring devices.) Once they are in place, warm and cool water (and sometimes air) are instilled into the ear canal. One thing you may want to keep in mind when you are talking with the Doctor is that often the terms “Endolymphatic Hydrops” or ‘Hydrops” are used interchangeably to describe Meniere’s disease.
A Meniere’s attack can come with a risk of physical injury. You can lose your balance and fall or have an accident while driving during an attack. When your symptoms start, find a safe place where you can sit or lie down. It can be helpful to have a place picked out in or near the places where you spend a lot of time, like at the gym, at work, or at school. Keeping a journal of symptoms can help your health care provider make the right diagnosis.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in your ear, you may be wondering if you have Meniere’s disease. While it is important to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis, there are some steps you can take to help determine if you may have this condition.
It is difficult to predict how Ménière’s disease will affect a person’s future. Oncoming attacks are often preceded by an “aura,” or the specific set of warning symptoms, listed below. Paying attention to these warning symptoms can allow a person to move to a safe or more comfortable situation before an attack. Meniere’s disease is most common in people ages 40 to 60.
Keep a symptom diary
One way to determine if you have Meniere’s disease is to keep a detailed record of your symptoms. Note the frequency and severity of your vertigo episodes, tinnitus flare-ups, and any changes in your hearing. By tracking these symptoms over time, you may be able to identify patterns that can help your doctor make a diagnosis.
Undergo diagnostic testing
If you suspect you have Meniere’s disease, your doctor may recommend diagnostic tests such as a hearing test, balance testing, and imaging studies to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. These tests can help confirm a diagnosis of Meniere’s disease and guide treatment options.
Seek a second opinion
If you are unsure about your diagnosis or treatment plan, it is always a good idea to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider. A fresh perspective can help ensure that you receive the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate care for your condition.
