What Causes Ménière’s Disease?

Ménière’s disease is often the result of extra fluid in the inner ear, but the source of the fluid is unclear. It may be caused by poor fluid drainage, genetics, infection or an autoimmune disorder.

How Is Ménière’s Disease Diagnosed?

Our ENTs will begin by taking a medical history and conducting a physical exam. Diagnostic tools may include a hearing test, balance test, MRI and CT scan. To receive a diagnosis of Ménière’s disease, a patient should have experienced regular episodes of vertigo lasting between 20 minutes and 12 hours, hearing loss, tinnitus and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Other potential causes of these symptoms should be ruled out.

How Is Ménière’s Disease Managed?

While there is no cure for Ménière’s disease, Greenwich ENT ENT doctors can help you explore options to minimize your symptoms. Suggested care may include diuretics to reduce the amount of fluid in the inner ear, medications to manage nausea or dizziness and exercises to help with balance issues, also known as Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy. To help with hearing loss associated with Ménière’s disease, your doctor can help you get started with hearing aids. Surgical procedures are usually reserved for the most severe instances of Ménière’s disease. If other treatments don’t help, procedures like labyrinthectomy, endolymphatic sac surgery or vestibular nerve section may be potential options moving forward.

Meniere's Disease - Greenwich ENT

Finding Relief from Ménière’s Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Ménière’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that results in vertigo, tinnitus and hearing loss. It is often caused by excess fluid in the inner ear. Though it can occur at any age, it is most frequently seen in patients ages 40-60.

Ménière’s disease is considered a lifelong condition, but Greenwich ENT ear, nose and throat doctors will partner with you to find ways to ease the symptoms so you can continue your daily routine with minimal interruptions.

What Are the Symptoms of Ménière’s Disease?

Ménière’s disease usually only affects one ear. You may notice:

Dizziness or loss of balance
Headaches
Tinnitus
Noise sensitivity
Pressure or fullness in the ear
Fluctuating hearing loss

You should seek medical attention if you have these symptoms. At Greenwich ENT, our ENTs can determine if they are a result of Ménière’s disease or another condition, such as multiple sclerosis.

Our Team Is Here To Help

The world is full of wonderful experiences, but when ear, nose, and throat (ENT) related issues become an obstacle, the richness of life fades into the background. At Greenwich ENT, we understand the profound impact these challenges can have on your confidence and happiness. That’s why our medical experts are here to diagnose, educate, guide and determine the best solution for your unique situation. You are not alone in this journey.

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