Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 5/1/2008

Question
About 15 yrs. ago I experienced significant hearing loss in my left ear. My right is also not 100%. I was subsiquently diagnosed with Meniers desease.  I have suffered with minor virtigo attacks over the years which would last usually several hours, and could control them with Antivert.  Recently I have had episodes which linger into the next day. I am becomming frustrated.  I spoke to my Dr. @ my last check up and asked had there been any advances made since my initial diagnosis, she said no, not that she is aware of.  Years ago I was told that unless the Vertigo is so severe that hospitalization is required the only treatment is risky inner ear surgery which poses a significant risk of further hearing loss. Do you have any new info. or suggestions.
Thanks,
Suzanne Goldberg

Answer
Hi Suzanne,
Because Meniere's Disease is caused by a buildup of fluid (endolymph) in the inner ear, many people find relief through the use of a low-salt or salt-free diet and the use of diuretics.  Have you tried any of these?  One recent innovation in the treatment of Ménière disease is the Meniett device. The device requires the insertion of a little tube in the eardrum.  The Meniett device delivers pulses of pressure to the inner ear via the this tube. Although no one knows exactly why this works, some patients have symptomatic relief when the device is used on a daily basis. Because it is new, long-term results have not been fully evaluated. You can read all about it and other treatment options for Meniere's on this site:  http://www.meniett.com/
Hope this helps.

Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology