This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is Ménière’s disease?
Ménière’s disease is a chronic inner ear condition that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and a feeling of fullness in the affected ear. It occurs due to abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear, which disrupts balance and hearing signals.
2. What are the common symptoms?
Symptoms occur in episodes lasting 20 minutes to several hours. These episodes may include spinning vertigo, nausea, vomiting, muffled hearing, tinnitus, and pressure or fullness in one ear. Between attacks, symptoms may improve, but some people develop gradual hearing loss over time.
3. What causes Ménière’s disease?
The exact cause is not fully understood. It is believed to be related to excess fluid (endolymph) in the inner ear. Possible triggers include viral infections, autoimmune factors, allergies, migraines, genetics, and fluid imbalance. Often, no single cause is identified.
4. Is Ménière’s disease dangerous?
Ménière’s is not life-threatening, but the vertigo episodes can be severe and disruptive. Sudden attacks may increase the risk of falls or accidents. Hearing loss can become permanent in some cases, so regular medical follow-up is important.
5. How is Ménière’s disease diagnosed?
A GP may refer you to an ENT specialist. Diagnosis typically involves your symptom history, hearing tests (audiometry), and sometimes balance tests. Scans are usually done only to rule out other causes of symptoms. Diagnosis is based on a combination of repeated vertigo episodes and hearing changes.
6. How is Ménière’s treated?
Treatment aims to reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. Common strategies include a low-salt diet, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, staying well hydrated, and using medications for vertigo or nausea during attacks. Some people benefit from diuretics or vestibular physiotherapy. In severe cases, ENT specialists may consider injections or surgical options.
7. Can Ménière’s disease be cured?
There is no cure, but many people successfully control symptoms with lifestyle adjustments and medication. Over time, vertigo attacks may become less frequent, although hearing loss may progress.
8. What triggers Ménière’s episodes?
Common triggers include high-salt meals, dehydration, stress, lack of sleep, caffeine, alcohol, sudden weather changes, or allergies. Identifying personal triggers can help reduce episode frequency.
9. How can I manage symptoms during an attack?
During a vertigo episode, lie down in a safe position, keep your head still, and avoid bright lights or screens. Use any prescribed medications for vertigo or nausea. Do not drive until you fully recover, and move slowly once the dizziness settles.
10. When should I see a GP?
See a GP if you experience repeated vertigo episodes, new hearing changes, persistent tinnitus, or symptoms that are affecting your daily life. Urgent medical review is needed if you develop severe headaches, weakness, double vision, or neurological symptoms.
