Ménière's Disease
Ménière's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder characterized by episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the affected ear. It typically affects one ear and can disrupt daily life.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts
- ICD-10: H81.0
- Classic triad: Vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus
- Often affects: One ear
Symptoms
- Recurrent episodes of severe vertigo lasting 20 minutes to several hours
- Fluctuating hearing loss, often progressing
- Tinnitus (ringing) in the affected ear
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Nausea and vomiting during attacks
- Drop attacks (sudden falls) in late stages
Diagnosis
- Detailed history of vertigo episodes
- Audiogram showing characteristic low-frequency hearing loss
- MRI to rule out other causes
- Vestibular testing
Treatment
- Low-salt diet (often most impactful lifestyle change)
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Diuretics
- Anti-vertigo medications (meclizine, prochlorperazine) for acute attacks
- Vestibular rehabilitation
- Intratympanic steroid or gentamicin injections
- Surgery (endolymphatic sac decompression, labyrinthectomy) in severe cases
- Hearing aids as hearing loss progresses
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor for recurrent vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, or ear fullness. Sudden hearing loss is a separate emergency requiring same-day care.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology. Ménière's Disease Patient Information.