Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 7/13/2008

Question
Hi, I'm Kristof from Belgium. I have been suffering hearing loss in the low frequencies (up to 70dB!!), since 3 months. After 6 weeks, the doctors came with the diagnosis of Cochlear Hydrops(right ear). No vertigo has been recorded or experienced. Treatment with diuretics (past 6 weeks) doesn't seem to effect. Some doctors claim to believe in recovery, others claim that probably, no recovery is still to be expected. Does anyone have experience in this field?

Answer
Hi Kristof,
Cochlear hydrops, also known as Endolymphatic hydrops (EH), is a buildup of the endolymph fluid in the inner ear.  Symptoms usually are fullness in the ear, roaring type noise in the ear, fluctuating low frequency hearing loss and vertigo.  Not all of these symptoms have to be present.  Diagnosis is based on history, symptoms, pattern of symptoms and certain tests.  These tests include basic audiometry, and tympanometry.  A more specialized test, known as Electrocochleography, is extremely valuable in the diagnosis.  Treatment entails taking care of the underlying cause, either by using diuretics and/or a diet that limits salt, smoked and prepared foods, wine, caffeine, and chocolate.  Some causes of EH may be related to head trauma or ear surgery, and it can occur with other inner ear disorders, allergies, or systemic disorders (such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders). Sometimes the treatment works and hearing recovers, sometimes it unfortunately does not and a hearing loss remains. Here is a great website for more information:  http://www.menieresinfo.com/symptoms.html  If you scroll down about halfway, you will see a discussion and references on Cochlear Hydrops.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology