Ménière's disease


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Ménière's disease


Ménière's (say "men-YEERS") disease is a disorder of the inner ear that affects hearing and balance. It causes sudden attacks of vertigo (a spinning sensation), tinnitus (a loud ringing in the ears), and hearing loss that may be temporary or permanent.

It may also cause:

  • Nausea and vomiting that occur with vertigo.
  • A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear.

The cause of Ménière's disease is not known, but it may be related to a fluid imbalance in the inner ear.

Treatment includes medicines and sometimes surgery to destroy the balance center in the inner ear. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, salt, and stress may prevent attacks of vertigo.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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