Meniere Disease: Advice to Patients

Meniere disease is a condition characterized by, usually, three symptoms—tinnitus, vertigo, and deafness. This disorder occurs in episodes or attacks during which the symptoms are suddenly felt or get worse dramatically. There is no definite explanation how the disorder takes place, but what experts know is that there is considerable pressure inside the affected ear of the patient.

Let’s explain the symptoms. Tinnitus is also called ringing in the ears because it usually sounds like something is ringing inside your ears. In people with Meniere disease, it can sound like a low hum in the affected ear. Most patients experience a permanent mild tinnitus, but episodes of severe ringing in the ears happen during attacks. Hearing loss is more of a fluctuating type than steady one. Significant hearing loss occurs during attacks. Vertigo is the worst symptom for most sufferers because it can cause accidents. It’s the reason why patients need to lie or sit down during attacks because severe dizziness can cause falling and other injuries.

During the remission, symptoms may disappear, although mild hearing loss and low grade tinnitus may be felt. The remission can last for weeks or months with no warning signs of another attack. An attack can last for several hours and sometimes may linger for days. This time, a patient will have to take a leave from work and stay a home with supervision.

A patient must remain still during the worst period of the attack. If you are driving, pull over and call up someone to get you. It is also advised that you stay away from noises because your ears are going to be particularly sensitive during attacks. Check if you could use masking devices to get relief from intense ringing in your head.

Call your doctor or set an appointment and make sure someone accompanies you to the hospital or clinic. If this is the first time you are experiencing an attack, then you must be evaluated properly. Doctors can give medications to alleviate pressure inside your affected ear. Diuretics, for instance, can reduce fluid pressure in the inner ears that’s causing the attacks. But keep in mind there is no cure or definite treatment for Meniere disease and medications are only administered to help you manage the symptoms like hearing loss and Tinnitus.