Meniere’s Disease And Its Treatment

Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that affects both balance and hearing. It typically manifests with episodes of vertigo (a spinning sensation), hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear. The exact cause of Meniere’s disease is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to fluid buildup in the inner ear.

Treatment for Meniere’s disease aims to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. Here are some common approaches:

1. Medications: Prescription medications can help alleviate symptoms such as vertigo and nausea during acute episodes. These may include motion sickness medications, anti-nausea drugs, and sometimes corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
2. Diuretics: Diuretics are medications that help reduce fluid retention in the body. They may be prescribed to help decrease fluid buildup in the inner ear, thus reducing the frequency of vertigo attacks.
3. Dietary changes: Some people find that certain dietary factors, such as excessive salt intake or consumption of caffeine and alcohol, can trigger or worsen Meniere’s symptoms. Making dietary modifications, such as reducing salt intake, may help manage the condition.
4. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT): VRT is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at improving balance and reducing dizziness. It involves exercises and maneuvers designed to retrain the brain to compensate for inner ear dysfunction.
5. Injections: In some cases, injections of medications such as corticosteroids or gentamicin directly into the inner ear may be considered to help control vertigo.
6. Surgery: In severe cases that do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options include endolymphatic sac decompression, vestibular nerve section, and in rare cases, labyrinthectomy (removal of the inner ear).

It’s important for individuals with Meniere’s disease to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as stress management techniques and maintaining good overall health can also be beneficial in managing the condition.

This is a public awareness video message by Dr Akbar Abbas who is one of the best ENT specialist in Karachi, Pakistan. for students and patients for making informed decisions about their own and others health. Dr Akbar specializes in otolaryngology, cochlear implants, ear surgery and is one of the few experts on pituitary and head and neck cancer surgery in Pakistan. Presently serving at Aga Khan University Hospital.