Now Hear This




Carolyn
Reeves,
Hearing
Specialist


MENIERE'S
DISEASE:
FACT
SHEET


What is Meniere's disease?


Meniere's disease is a disease of the inner ear and is de-
fined by spontaneous vertigo attacks, each lasting 20 min-
utes to 12 hours, with low- to mid-frequency sensorineural
hearing loss in the affected ear before, during, or after one
of the episodes of vertigo. Vertigo is defined as the feeling of
spinning or moving when one is not moving. This is different
from dizziness, which can mean feeling lightheaded or feel-
ing like passing out.


What is the incidence of Meniere's disease?


Prevalence estimates as low as 3.5 in 100,000 and as high
as 513 in 100,000 have been reported from Meniere's disease
studies worldwide. However, obtaining an accurate estimate
of the incidence and prevalence of Meniere's disease has been
challenging for researchers due to both methodological limi-
tations and the rarity of the condition.


What causes Meniere's disease?


The exact cause of Meniere's disease is unknown. but it is
believed that it is caused by having too much fluid in one of
the spaces of the inner ear.


When should someone seek medical care?
Someone should seek medical care if they have symptoms
such as feeling as if they are moving or spinning when they
are not moving (vertigo), hearing loss that changes from bet-
ter to worse (fluctuating), ringing or buzzing in the ear (tin-
nitus), or their ear feeling full or plugged (ear pressure).


Presented as a service to the community by


Hearing
Aid Center


105 S. Main Street, Corbin, KY - 528-1136