Medical History & Exam
We review the timing and pattern of your episodes, examine your ears, and look for other causes of dizziness.
Ear Clinic
Meniere's Disease
Sudden spinning spells, ringing, and hearing that comes and goes can be frightening. Our neurotologists and audiologists work together to confirm the diagnosis and build a plan to help control your symptoms.
What Is Meniere's Disease?
Meniere's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that affects both hearing and balance. It is linked to a buildup of fluid (endolymph) in the inner ear, although the exact cause is not fully understood.
It usually begins in one ear and most often appears between ages 40 and 60. Symptoms come in episodes, and between attacks many people feel well. Over time, hearing in the affected ear may gradually worsen.
Common Symptoms
- Episodes of spinning vertigo lasting 20 minutes to several hours
- Hearing loss that fluctuates, especially in low pitches
- Ringing, roaring, or buzzing (tinnitus) in the affected ear
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Nausea or vomiting during attacks
- Unsteadiness or fatigue after an episode
How It Is Diagnosed
Hearing Evaluation
A full hearing test documents the type and amount of hearing loss. Repeat tests can show the fluctuating pattern typical of Meniere's.
Imaging When Needed
An MRI may be recommended to rule out other conditions, such as an acoustic neuroma, that can cause similar symptoms.
Treatment Options
Diet & Lifestyle
A low-salt diet, staying hydrated, and limiting caffeine and alcohol may help reduce how often attacks happen.
Medications
Betahistine and diuretics (water pills) are common first-line options that may help reduce how often vertigo attacks occur.
In-Office Ear Injections
Steroids placed through the eardrum can help control vertigo when other treatments are not enough. For select patients gentamicin may be used instead.
Hearing Aids
When hearing loss is present, hearing aids can improve communication and may make tinnitus less noticeable.
Surgery
For persistent vertigo, surgical options such as endolymphatic sac procedures, vestibular nerve section, or labyrinthectomy may be considered discussed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cure for Meniere's disease?
There is no cure yet, but most people can control their vertigo attacks well with the right combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and, when needed, procedures.
Will I lose my hearing?
Hearing may fluctuate early on and can gradually decline in the affected ear over years. Regular hearing tests help us track changes and fit hearing aids when they would help.
Can Meniere's affect both ears?
Most people have it in one ear, but some develop symptoms in the other ear over time.
What should I do during a vertigo attack?
Sit or lie down in a safe place. Take medication your physician prescribed for acute attacks attacks.
Is it safe to drive with Meniere's disease?
Attacks can come on suddenly. Talk with your physician about driving safety based on how often you have episodes and whether you get any warning beforehand.
How is Meniere's different from BPPV?
BPPV causes brief spinning, usually under a minute, triggered by head movement. Meniere's attacks last much longer and come with hearing changes, ringing, and ear fullness.
When to Be Seen Promptly
Seek emergency care for dizziness with severe headache, weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, vision changes, or chest pain. Call us promptly for sudden hearing loss, which should be evaluated as soon as possible.
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