Others point to drainage issues due to a physical blockage or abnormal ear structure. Still others suspect allergies; viral and bacterial infections, including Lyme disease; head trauma; migraine headaches; and autoimmune responses. Because Meniere’s sometimes runs in families, others believe there may be a genetic link.
Also, fluid may leak between different parts of the labyrinth. These effects may cause the inner ear to send abnormal messages to the brain, which causes the dizziness and being sick (vomiting). Some people report fatigue and a sense of imbalance following an attack of vertigo, which can last some time. Some people have reported that these symptoms have become permanent.
Because Ménière’s disease appears to run in families, it could also be the result of genetic variations that cause abnormalities in the volume or regulation of endolymph fluid. In Ménière’s disease, the endolymph buildup in the labyrinth interferes with the normal balance and hearing signals between the inner ear and the brain. This abnormality causes vertigo and other symptoms of Ménière’s disease. No, but if you have Ménière’s disease, you can reduce your risk the disease will worsen.
In recent years, there has been more focus on migraine and Meniere’s symptoms. Several studies have shown that there is significant overlap between the symptoms of vestibular migraine and those of Meniere’s disease. Researches hope that a deeper understanding of the connection could lead to improved treatment approaches for both conditions in the future. The inner ear has two primary functions, the sensation of hearing, as well as contributions to balance and equilibrium. The cochlea is the organ of hearing and allows for perception of sound.
Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of pressure in the affected ear. The condition typically progresses through four distinct stages, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges.
Stage 1: Early-stage
In the early stage of Meniere’s disease, patients may experience intermittent episodes of vertigo that can last anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours. These bouts of dizziness can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. Hearing loss and tinnitus may also be present during this stage, but they are usually temporary and resolve once the episode has passed.
These are some of the main things in your everyday life that can set off a vertigo attack. Before you try any alternative therapies, talk to your doctor because some can affect your other treatments. Information on this website is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Some people have a family history of Ménière’s disease, which means people may inherit the condition. Meniere’s disease is most common in people ages 40 to 60. Ménière’s disease has a complicated range of symptoms and is difficult to diagnose and treat.
Stage 2: Middle-stage
Most people with Meniere’s disease are able to fly without any problems. Tell the airline that you have Meniere’s disease and make sure you get travel insurance. Ask for an aisle seat so you aren’t tempted to watch out the window and can get to the bathroom more easily. If noise and vibration set off your vertigo attacks, ask for a seat that’s away from the engines.
As Meniere’s disease progresses to the middle stage, vertigo attacks may become more frequent and severe. Patients may also notice a gradual decline in their hearing, which can become permanent over time. Tinnitus may persist and worsen, and individuals may begin to experience more frequent episodes of imbalance and unsteadiness.
Stage 3: Late-stage
During the late stage of Meniere’s disease, vertigo attacks may become less frequent but more debilitating. Hearing loss is usually significant and may affect both low and high frequencies. Tinnitus can become constant and bothersome, and individuals may struggle with balance issues on a daily basis. Some patients may also experience cognitive difficulties and emotional disturbances due to the chronic nature of the condition.
Stage 4: End-stage
The end stage of Meniere’s disease is characterized by profound hearing loss, constant tinnitus, and severe imbalance. Vertigo attacks may be rare but intense, leading to a significant impact on quality of life. Patients in the end stage of the disease may require assistive devices such as hearing aids or cochlear implants to manage their hearing loss, and they may struggle with ongoing physical and emotional challenges.
