Meniere’s Disease Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Meniere’s disease is an inner ear disorder that is characterized by dizziness or vertigo and hearing problems. This condition is rare and can trigger another sensation such as the pressure sensation or feel full in the ear. In most cases, it only affects one ear, but it may also spread to both ears over time. Unfortunately, Meniere’s disease is a lifelong condition and there is currently no known cure for it. This disease is most often experienced by patients at the age of 20 to 60 years. Women also have a slightly higher incidence of Meniere disease compared to men.
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Meniere’s Disease Causes
The exact cause of Meniere's disease is still not known for certain. There have been numerous theories that surround its etiology. Unfortunately, none of these theories has been proven due to the complex nature of the inner ear. Experts suspect that the disease is triggered by fluid abnormalities in the inner ear or by the constriction of blood vessels that are associated with a migraine. There are a number of factors that are believed to trigger Meniere's disease.
- Genetic predisposition
- Abnormal immune function
- Viral infection
- Physical trauma in the head
- Environmental factors
- Allergy
- There is an imbalance of chemical compounds in the fluid in the inner ear due to too high or too low levels of sodium or potassium.
Meniere’s Disease Symptoms
Meniere's disease has a variety of symptoms and generally attacks suddenly. The duration of this disease attack also varies for each person. Patients with Meniere's disease may experience a combination of symptoms that can significantly impact their daily lives. The following are the common symptoms.
- Vertigo
- Tinnitus (the ringing, buzzing, roaring or whistling sound in the ear)
- Hearing loss
- Aural fullness (full sensation or pressure in the ear)
- Headaches
- Nausea
After an onset of symptoms, you may experience extreme fatigue and exhaustion that requiring you to recover. It is also not unusual for sufferers to experience psychological problems or emotional stress due to Meniere's disease. Some of the psychological problems that you may encounter include anxiety, depression, loss of self-confidence, and poor concentration.
Meniere’s Disease Treatments
Unfortunately, Meniere’s disease includes the incurable diseases. The treatment aims to lessen the severity and frequency of its symptoms, especially vertigo episodes. If not properly managed, it may even hinder your productivity and relationships. Taking medicines and using medical devices are not the only way to manage Meniere’s, there is also natural treatment.
Usual Therapies and Medical Procedures
- Vestibular rehabilitation. Involves the series of eye, shoulder, and neck exercises to help the brain regain its ability to maintain your body's equilibrium.
- Hearing aid. If you have developed permanent hearing loss, then you may be required to wear a hearing aid.
- Ear injections. This procedure involves the use of antibiotics (reducing the balancing function of the affected ear) or steroids (alleviating vertigo attacks).
- Meniett pulse generator. This device delivers pulses of pressure to the ear canal to improve the fluid exchange inside the ear and help relieve vertigo.
Natural Treatment Methods
During an onset of symptoms, try to do the following techniques before relying on medicine.
- Sit or lie down in a comfortable place
- Rest after an episode to regain your strength
- Avoid sudden movement or objects that may exacerbate your symptoms
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle and dietary changes to reduce the frequency and severity of Meniere’s disease by manage your stress, limit your intake of unhealthy foods, stop to bad habits, and remain physically active