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Eye & EarICD-10: H81.0Affects approximately 615,000 people in the United States

Meniere's Disease

Also known as: Endolymphatic Hydrops

Meniere's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder characterized by recurring episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the affected ear. The exact cause is unknown but is associated with abnormal fluid buildup (endolymph) in the inner ear. Episodes can be debilitating and typically affect one ear, though both ears may eventually become involved.

Symptoms

Recurring episodes of vertigo lasting 20 minutes to several hours
Fluctuating hearing loss that may become permanent
Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ear)
Sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear (aural fullness)
Nausea and vomiting during vertigo episodes
Loss of balance
Sensitivity to loud sounds

Causes

  • Abnormal accumulation of endolymphatic fluid in the inner ear
  • Possible autoimmune component
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Viral infection of the inner ear

Risk Factors

  • Age 40–60 years
  • Family history of Meniere's disease
  • Pre-existing autoimmune conditions
  • History of head trauma or ear infections
  • High sodium diet

Diagnosis

  • Audiometry showing low- to mid-frequency sensorineural hearing loss
  • Electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG)
  • Electrocochleography (ECoG)
  • MRI to rule out acoustic neuroma or other structural causes

Treatment

  • Low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention
  • Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide, triamterene)
  • Vestibular rehabilitation therapy
  • Betahistine (used in many countries outside the US)
  • Intratympanic steroid or gentamicin injections for refractory cases
  • Endolymphatic sac decompression surgery in severe cases

Prevention

  • Limit dietary sodium to less than 1,500–2,000 mg per day
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco
  • Stay well hydrated

When to See a Doctor

  • Sudden onset of vertigo with hearing changes
  • Hearing loss that worsens progressively
  • Vertigo episodes that interfere with daily activities
  • New tinnitus or ear pressure that persists

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Tinnitus

Eye & Ear

Vertigo

Neurological

Hearing Loss

Eye & Ear

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