Introduction

Ménière’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause debilitating episodes of vertigo (a spinning sensation), fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ear), and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. This chronic condition can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. At California Hearing Center, our experienced audiologists understand the challenges posed by Ménière’s disease and are dedicated to providing comprehensive information, accurate diagnosis, and effective management strategies for our patients in South San Francisco and the surrounding areas.

What is Ménière’s Disease?

Ménière’s disease typically affects only one ear, although it can become bilateral in some individuals over time. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal buildup of fluid in the inner ear, known as endolymphatic hydrops. This excess fluid disrupts the normal functioning of the inner ear’s balance and hearing structures.

Key Symptoms of Ménière’s Disease

The symptoms of Ménière’s disease often occur in episodes or “attacks” that can last from 20 minutes to several hours. The classic tetrad of symptoms includes:

• Vertigo: A severe spinning sensation that can cause nausea, vomiting, and difficulty with balance. This is often the most disruptive symptom.
• Fluctuating Hearing Loss: Hearing loss that comes and goes, often affecting lower frequencies initially. Over time, the hearing loss may become permanent and affect all frequencies.
• Tinnitus: The perception of sound in the ear, which can be ringing, buzzing, roaring, or a feeling of pressure. The tinnitus may worsen before, during, or after a vertigo attack.
• Aural Fullness: A sensation of pressure, congestion, or blockage in the affected ear.

The frequency and severity of these episodes vary greatly among individuals with Ménière’s disease. Some may have attacks frequently, while others experience them only sporadically.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis at California Hearing Center

Diagnosing Ménière’s disease involves a thorough evaluation by our audiologists at California Hearing Center. There is no single definitive test, so diagnosis is typically based on a pattern of symptoms and the exclusion of other conditions. Our diagnostic process may include:

• Detailed Medical History: We will discuss your symptoms, their frequency and duration, and your overall medical background.
• Comprehensive Hearing Test (Audiogram): To assess the type and degree of hearing loss in both ears. This may reveal fluctuating low-frequency hearing loss, a hallmark of early Ménière’s disease.
• Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex Testing: To evaluate the function of the middle ear.
• Electronystagmography (ENG) or Videonystagmography (VNG): These tests assess your balance function by measuring eye movements in response to various stimuli. Abnormalities can indicate an inner ear disorder.
• Electrocochleography (ECoG): This test measures the electrical activity in the inner ear and can sometimes help identify endolymphatic hydrops.
• Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Testing: While not specific to Ménière’s disease, this test may be used to rule out other conditions affecting the auditory pathway.
• Referral to a Physician (ENT): We often work closely with otolaryngologists (ENT doctors) who may order imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

Management Strategies for Ménière’s Disease at California Hearing Center

While there is currently no cure for Ménière’s disease, various management strategies can help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes and alleviate symptoms. At California Hearing Center, we focus on personalized management plans that may include:

• Lifestyle Modifications:
  • Dietary Changes: Limiting sodium intake and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol may help reduce fluid retention in the inner ear.
  • Stress Management: Stress can trigger attacks in some individuals. Techniques like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise may be beneficial.
  • Adequate Sleep: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help manage overall health and potentially reduce the frequency of episodes.
• Medications:
  • Diuretics: These medications can help reduce fluid retention in the body, potentially impacting inner ear fluid levels.
  • Anti-vertigo and Anti-nausea Medications: These can provide relief during acute attacks.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): This therapy involves exercises designed to help your brain compensate for inner ear balance problems, reducing the severity and frequency of vertigo. Our audiologists at California Hearing Center can provide guidance and referrals for VRT.
• Hearing Aids: For individuals with significant hearing loss due to Ménière’s disease, hearing aids can improve communication and quality of life. Explore hearing aid options at California Hearing Center.
• Tinnitus Management: Strategies such as sound therapy and counseling can help manage the often-accompanying tinnitus. Learn more about tinnitus management at California Hearing Center.
• Injections into the Middle Ear: In some cases, injections of corticosteroids or gentamicin (an antibiotic that can affect balance function) into the middle ear may be considered to reduce vertigo episodes. This is typically performed by an ENT physician.
• Surgery: Surgical options are reserved for severe, debilitating cases that haven’t responded to other treatments. These may include endolymphatic sac decompression, vestibular nerve section, or labyrinthectomy. Surgical decisions are made in consultation with an ENT physician.

Living Well with Ménière’s Disease: Support from California Hearing Center

Living with Ménière’s disease can be challenging, but with accurate diagnosis, personalized management, and ongoing support, individuals can learn to cope with their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. At California Hearing Center, our team is committed to providing compassionate and expert care to help you navigate the complexities of Ménière’s disease. If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of Ménière’s disease, don’t hesitate to seek a comprehensive evaluation.

Schedule a consultation at California Hearing Center today or call us at (650) 342-9449 to discuss your concerns and take the first step towards better understanding and managing your condition.