The difference between otolithiasis and Ménière's disease

Written by Xu Qing Tian

Otolaryngology

Updated on February 21, 2025

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The main difference between BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) and Meniere's Disease lies in their symptoms and causes. BPPV primarily manifests as episodes of dizziness due to dislodged otoconia moving into the semicircular canals, leading to vestibular irritation. On the other hand, Meniere's Disease presents a group of symptoms including vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, and tinnitus, thought to be caused by fluid accumulation in the labyrinth, triggering labyrinthine irritation.

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Written by Li Rui

Otolaryngology

40sec

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Clinical Manifestations of Otolithiasis

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a relatively common ENT disorder, clinically characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo associated with changes in body or head position. Typically, vertigo can be induced when the head is tilted toward a certain direction, but the duration of vertigo is brief, usually disappearing within a few seconds once the head position is stabilized. However, it tends to recur and does not accompany tinnitus, hearing loss, or headaches. Therefore, it is necessary to consult an ENT or neurology department, allowing experienced doctors to make a targeted assessment.

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Written by Li Rui

Otolaryngology

50sec

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How is otolithiasis treated?

Ear stone disease is a relatively common otolaryngological disorder, clinically known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. It is primarily characterized by short episodes of dizziness, nausea, and vomiting that occur with changes in body position, typically lasting about 10 seconds. The symptoms of vertigo quickly disappear once the body position is stabilized. In terms of treatment, manual repositioning therapy is initially considered and is generally effective for most patients. If manual therapy alone does not yield satisfactory results, treatment using a mechanical rotating chair may be considered. Additionally, some patients may consider oral medication. If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention might be necessary.

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Written by Li Rui

Otolaryngology

51sec

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Can otolithiasis heal by itself?

Otolithiasis is a relatively common ENT disease, clinically known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. The main clinical manifestation is vertigo related to changes in body position, but the duration of vertigo is relatively short. Generally, once the head position is stabilized, the vertigo symptoms quickly disappear, and there is no tinnitus or hearing loss. In terms of treatment, a small portion of patients can recover on their own, especially when the symptoms are not particularly noticeable and the condition is not particularly severe, allowing for possible self-recovery. However, if self-recovery is not possible or if clinical symptoms are more severe, timely manual repositioning treatment is recommended. After manual repositioning treatment, most patients can quickly recover and relieve their vertigo symptoms.

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Written by Zhang Jun

Otolaryngology

1min 1sec

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How to treat mild ear stone disease?

Mild ear stone disease can be cured with hospital treatment for ear stone repositioning. Ear stone disease is relatively common clinically. Generally, the symptoms are caused by the movement of ear stones in the semicircular canals, leading to recurrent dizziness in patients. This typically occurs when getting out of bed or turning the head, and the dizziness lasts about one minute. Patients may also experience severe nausea and vomiting, but there is no hearing loss or tinnitus. If dizziness occurs repeatedly, it is necessary to go to the hospital for a detailed examination including electronic otoscopy, electrophysiological hearing test, acoustic impedance testing, calorics test, glycerol test, and nystagmography to confirm the diagnosis. In terms of treatment, ear stone disease requires stimulation treatment and repositioning treatment for cure. After repositioning, patients also need to adjust their diet and mindset, and avoid vigorous exercise to prevent recurrence.

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Written by Li Rui

Otolaryngology

50sec

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How to deal with tinnitus caused by otolithiasis?

Otolithiasis is a relatively common otolaryngological disease, with clinical symptoms mainly manifested as vertigo. Some patients may experience nausea and vomiting, but it generally does not lead to tinnitus. There are many causes of tinnitus, with neurological causes being common, and it may also be due to inflammatory responses. Therefore, after the occurrence of otolithiasis accompanied by tinnitus, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist. Tests such as positional experiments, audiometric testing, and endoscopic examination of the ear can help determine the specific cause of the disease and the extent of the condition, after which targeted treatment can be administered. Regular follow-ups are needed during the treatment process to monitor the effects.