Meniere’s Disease

The most common symptoms of Meniere’s disease are:
1- Vertigo (Dizziness)
• Occurs in attacks
• Can last from minutes to several hours
• Can cause severe loss of balance and a feeling of falling
• Nausea and vomiting may accompany it
2- Hearing Loss
• Usually starts in low-frequency sounds
• May be progressive over time
• Becomes more pronounced during attacks
3- Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
• Can be felt as a humming, buzzing, or ringing sound
• May be constant or increase with attacks
4- Feeling of Fullness in the Ear
• Feeling of pressure or blockage
• May increase before an attack

The exact cause of Meniere’s disease is not fully known. However, it is thought that the disruption of the fluid balance in the inner ear plays a key role in the disease.
Possible risk factors include:
• Autoimmune diseases
• Genetic predisposition
• Viral infections
• Circulatory disorders
• Intense stress and lifestyle factors

The diagnosis is made by a detailed evaluation by an otolaryngologist.
Methods that can be used:
• Audiometry (hearing tests)
• Balance tests (VNG, caloric tests)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
These tests are important to exclude other diseases with similar symptoms.

Although there is no definitive cure for Meniere’s disease, the aim is to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks and to improve the quality of life.
1. Medication Treatment
• Betahistine: Often used to reduce vertigo attacks
• Vestibular suppressants: For the control of dizziness
• Diuretics: To reduce inner ear fluid pressure
• Antiemetics: To control nausea and vomiting
2. Lifestyle Changes
• Restriction of salt intake
• Reduction of caffeine and alcohol
• Regular sleep habits
• Controlling stress
• Adequate fluid intake
3. Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation exercises can help the balance system adapt in patients with persistent balance problems.
4. Surgical and Interventional Treatments
Advanced treatment options can also be evaluated in patients with severe attacks despite medication and lifestyle adjustments:
• Endolymphatic sac surgery
• Intratympanic drug applications
• Vestibular nerve cut (in selected cases)
The decision for surgical treatment must be made after a detailed evaluation.