Meniere’s Disease is an uncommon condition with available treatment.
Hearing loss and hearing disorders are an unfortunate reality of life for many people. While many people associate hearing loss with age, there are actually many disorders of the ear that can also lead to hearing loss. One of these is Meniere’s Disease, a disorder of the inner ear. People who have Meniere’s Disease often experience hearing loss, Tinnitus, and vertigo. While this condition is lifelong, there are treatments available.
Causes
The exact cause of Meniere’s Disease is unknown, but it is believed to be related to levels of fluid, or endolymph, in the inner ear. The liquid level issue could be the result of disease or infection, improper drainage, an autoimmune response, or even genetics, though it likely is a combination of these factors. Meniere’s Disease often happens in one ear alone. It usually begins in young to middle-aged adulthood.
Symptoms
Meniere’s Disease consists of four main symptoms. One of the most prominent and noticeable is that of vertigo. Vertigo is a spinning sensation that starts and stops, and it can often cause nausea. Episodes of vertigo can last from twenty minutes to several hours, and they often reoccur. Another common symptom is Tinnitus, a ringing in the ears. It can also sound like a buzzing, roaring, hissing, or whistling sound in your ears. Meniere’s Disease is also often accompanied by a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear and by hearing loss. Early on, the hearing loss will probably come and go, but eventually, it will be permanent.
Complications
While hearing loss is the most worrisome complication for many people, vertigo can also be a big issue. Episodes of dizziness can cause you to lose balance and fall, resulting in other problems. If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms of Meniere’s Disease, it is necessary to consult an audiologist. Sometimes other conditions are responsible for those symptoms, so you will need a professional to diagnose you accurately.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently-owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
Come in for a walk-in appointment on Tuesdays & Fridays from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, or contact us to schedule an appointment by calling 410-698-6594 or visiting our contact page. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and LinkedIn for more blog posts, news, and updates!