Meniere's disease

     While walking or standing normally, you may suddenly feel as if the world is spinning, your stomach churns with nausea, and your ears ring persistently. Upon medical evaluation, you may be diagnosed with inner ear fluid pressure imbalance, commonly known as 'Meniere’s disease'. Individuals with this condition typically experience such episodes at least once.

Meniere's disease Symptoms

     A common symptom is vertigo, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sudden sweating. These episodes can last from 20 minutes to several hours. Though intense, they do not cause unconsciousness or paralysis. After the vertigo subsides, the patient usually feels normal. Temporary or permanent hearing loss and ear fullness may also occur. In early stages, hearing loss is typically temporary and returns to normal after the vertigo resolves.

In Chronic Cases

     Vertigo episodes are frequent, and hearing loss often becomes permanent, potentially leading to deafness. Affected individuals may also experience tinnitus (ringing in the affected ear), described as buzzing or roaring, and a sense of pressure due to abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear.

Causes

     The condition is mostly idiopathic (of unknown cause). When the cause is known, it falls under the broader term Meniere’s syndrome, which may be associated with conditions such as syphilis or chronic middle ear infections. The disease is not curable, but symptoms—particularly vertigo—can often be managed effectively. It may affect one or both ears, with unilateral cases often progressing to bilateral involvement over time.

Pathophysiology

The ear consists of the outer, middle, and inner ear. The inner ear comprises two main parts:

• The cochlea, which processes sound
• The semicircular canals, which control balance

     Structurally, the inner ear has a bony labyrinth enclosing a membranous labyrinth, which contains fluid (endolymph). In patients with the condition, excess fluid builds up, impairing circulation. The resulting pressure disrupts auditory and balance nerve signals, leading to hearing loss and vertigo. The affected ear often feels full or tight.

Treatment

• Dietary Modification: Limit salt intake to no more than 2 grams per day (approx. 1 teaspoon) to reduce fluid retention.
• Medications:
  • Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup
  • Antivertigo and anti-nausea drugs—used during episodes only
  • Sedatives and sleep aids for relaxation and sleep
  • Vasodilators to improve inner ear circulation and reduce fluid pressure

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Manage stress and avoid overexertion
• Exercise regularly
• Ensure adequate rest; play soft music to mask tinnitus and improve sleep
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking, which can worsen symptoms
• Practice vestibular rehabilitation (balance and head movement training)
• Avoid triggers like loud noise, bright light, or heat
• Keep home and work environments safe and obstacle-free

Surgical Treatment

     The condition cannot be completely cured. Surgery is considered when medications fail to control vertigo. Surgical intervention aims to reduce symptoms, particularly vertigo, and improve quality of life.