What is Ménière's disease?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on August 31, 2024
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Meniere's disease is a relatively common otolaryngological condition, related to the accumulation of fluid in the inner lymph sac or hydrops of the membranous labyrinth. There is some individual variability in clinical symptoms, with the most common symptoms being tinnitus, hearing loss, a feeling of ear fullness, and vertigo. Generally, the duration of the condition lasts about 20 minutes to half a day. Some patients may experience more severe vertigo, while others may have milder symptoms, depending on individual reactions and the severity of the condition. Most patients have recurrent episodes. In terms of treatment, most patients can consider conservative treatment, but surgical treatment may be necessary for a small number of patients who do not respond well to conservative therapy.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Does Meniere's disease spread?

Meniere's disease is not contagious. The occurrence of Meniere's disease is due to the stimulation of the inner ear caused by fluid accumulation in the inner ear labyrinth, leading to symptoms such as fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, ear fullness, and vertigo. The pathogenesis of Meniere's disease is not yet fully understood. When symptoms such as vertigo occur, it is important to visit a hospital promptly for comprehensive diagnostic tests, including cranial MRI, high-resolution CT of the temporal bone, and pure tone audiometry, to confirm the diagnosis, exclude cervical vertigo and cerebrovascular insufficiency in the posterior circulation, and under the guidance of a specialist, use vasodilators, nerve-nourishing agents, and vestibular suppressants to alleviate related symptoms like vertigo.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Does Meniere's disease cause headaches?

Meniere's disease is a relatively common inner ear disorder characterized by multiple clinical symptoms. Generally, it does not cause headaches, but common symptoms include vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. Some patients may experience nausea and vomiting, and the condition may relapse multiple times. After the onset of the disease, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist. Auditory tests and cochleograms can be conducted, and some patients may need a head MRI. These diagnostic tests, combined with the doctor's clinical experience, can help determine the extent of the condition. Most patients can opt for conservative medical treatment, but a small number of patients with severe conditions and poor response to conservative treatment may need to consider surgery.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Precautions for Meniere's Disease

The first consideration for Ménière's disease is to try to avoid emotional fluctuations and maintain a pleasant mood. Emotional fluctuations can potentially trigger an acute attack of Ménière’s disease. Secondly, one should avoid noisy environments as much as possible, ensure rest, and improve sleep. Thirdly, in daily life, avoid consuming coffee, strong tea, cola, and try not to eat stimulating foods, as these factors may induce or aggravate the existing condition. Fourthly, regular check-ups at an otolaryngology (ENT) department are necessary to monitor any changes in hearing, as some patients might experience a gradual decline in hearing.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should be noted about Meniere's disease?

Ménière's disease is a relatively common ENT disorder, which is associated with the accumulation of endolymph in the inner ear labyrinth. The onset of the disease may vary among individuals and is mostly related to external stimuli. In daily life, it is necessary to maintain a light diet and avoid foods that are easily stimulating. Do not drink coffee, strong tea, carbonated drinks, or beverages containing stimulants. It is also necessary to ensure adequate sleep and avoid long-term exposure to noisy environments. It is recommended to keep a pleasant mood and avoid excessive irritability.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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The main symptoms of Meniere's disease

Meniere's disease is a relatively common ENT disorder, primarily caused by fluid accumulation in the labyrinth. It presents with various clinical symptoms. Common symptoms include recurrent vertigo, which usually lasts for several hours. There may also be tinnitus, a feeling of ear fullness, and decreased hearing. Severe cases may experience nausea and vomiting. In terms of treatment, most patients can be managed with medications, and dietary adjustments are also necessary, including no smoking, no alcohol, low salt diet, and avoiding emotional stress. If standard medication treatment is ineffective, surgical treatment may be considered. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)