The Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Menieres Disease

Ménière's disease affects about 615,000 people in the United States, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). It can emerge at any age, but it is most frequent between the ages of 40 and 60. In most situations, just one ear is affected.

The symptoms, causes of Ménière's illness, as well as alternative and conventional treatments by ENT doctors, are discussed in this article.

Symptoms

According to ear doctors following are the most common symptoms -

• Vertigo

• Tinnitus

• Hearing loss is a common problem.

• Anxiety, stress, and depression are all symptoms of depression.

Causes

Ménière's disease can be caused by abnormalities in the inner ear's structure or fluid levels. The specific rationale for these modifications, however, is unknown.

The labyrinth is a network of interconnecting passageways and chambers in the inner ear.

The bone labyrinth is located in the outer section of the inner ear. A soft membrane structure, which is a smaller counterpart of the labyrinth and has a similar shape, is found inside.

Endolymph is a fluid found in the membranous labyrinth. It also possesses hair-like sensors that respond to fluid movement and deliver nerve impulse information to the brain.

The inner ear is involved in a variety of sensory perceptions, including:

• Detecting acceleration in any direction

• Rotating motion

• Sound

The pressure, volume, and chemical composition of the fluid must all be correct so that all of the sensors in the inner ear can function properly.

Certain aspects of Ménière's illness affect the characteristics of the inner ear fluid, resulting in the disease's confusing consequences.

Treatment

Changes in your way of life

Ménière's illness has been linked to worry and stress. It's unknown if stress and anxiety produce Ménière's disease symptoms, or if the condition causes stress and worry.

Stress and anxiety management can help minimize the severity of symptoms in either case. Yoga, meditation, tai chi, and mindfulness can all help people relax. Ask your ear doctor if you need such changes.

Treatments for vertigo

For vertigo, ENT doctors may prescribe a variety of medications. Among the possibilities are:

• Anti-nausea medications: Meclizine (Antivert) and diazepam are two of these drugs (Valium). They can aid with nausea and vomiting, as well as the spinning sensation caused by vertigo.

• Anti-nausea medications: Prochlorperazine (Compazine) is an effective treatment for nausea associated with vertigo.

• Diuretics: These medications help the body retain less fluid. Doctors may prescribe a combination of triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide to treat Ménière's illness (Dyazide or Maxzide).

The fluid volume and pressure in the inner ear may be improved by reducing the amount of fluid retained by the body. As a result, the intensity and frequency of symptoms may be reduced.

Injections in the middle ear

To alleviate vertigo symptoms, doctors can inject medicines into the middle ear.

The antibiotic gentamicin (Garamycin) and steroids like dexamethasone are among these medications (Decadron).

See us at OKOA for the details. For treatments regarding allergies, pediatric ENT and more visit us in OKC.

**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.