Menu
Skip to main content
Table of Contents

Ménière’s Disease

What is Ménière’s Disease?

Ménière’s disease is an inner ear condition that can affect both balance and hearing. It may cause episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, pressure or fullness in the ear, and changes in hearing, usually in one ear. Symptoms often happen in attacks that can last from 20 minutes to several hours. Some people feel normal between attacks, while others may continue to have milder symptoms between episodes. Ménière’s disease usually affects one ear, but in some cases both ears can be involved. It is related to changes in fluid in the inner ear.

Normal inner ear fluid spaces

Inner ear with Ménière’s Disease

What is Happening in My Body?

Ménière’s disease is linked to a fluid problem in the inner ear. Think of the inner ear like a tiny water-filled level (the small tool that helps show if a shelf is straight or tilted). When the fluid pressure is off, the “level” may send the wrong balance signals to the brain. Because the hearing part of the inner ear also uses this fluid, hearing can be affected too.

Because of this, you may feel:

  • Spinning (like the room is moving)
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Ringing or buzzing in one ear
  • Ear pressure
  • Hearing that comes and goes
  • Feeling unsteady or “wobbly”
  • Very tired after attacks

It is important to know:

  • You did not cause this
  • Your symptoms are real
  • You are not alone
  • Many people improve with the right plan

How is Ménière’s Disease Diagnosed?

There is no single test for Ménière’s disease. Your provider looks at your symptoms and test results.

What Your Provider May Ask:

  • How often do attacks happen?
  • How long do they last?
  • Do you have hearing changes or ear symptoms?
  • Do you have migraine symptoms?
  • What seems to trigger attacks?
It can be helpful to think about, and write down, your answers to these questions before your visit. This will help you to be prepared and give your provider clear explanations of your experience. 

Common Tests Used to Confirm Diagnosis

  • Hearing test (audiology test): checks hearing levels
  • Balance test (VNG/ENG): uses special goggles to track your eye movements and help your provider understand how your balance system is working
  • MRI: rules out other causes
  • VEMP test: checks inner ear reflexes

An example of Videonystagmography (VNG) test

How is Ménière’s Disease Treated?

There is no cure yet, but treatment can help manage symptoms.

Common Treatment Options:

  • Medications: Medications may be used to:
    • Help with dizziness and nausea during attacks
    • Help prevent attacks
    • Reduce inner ear pressure with water pills, if recommended by your provider
  • Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes may help reduce symptoms or attacks. This may include:
    • Lowering salt intake
    • Getting good sleep
    • Staying hydrated
    • Managing stress
    • Limiting caffeine and alcohol if they trigger symptoms
    • Tracking triggers, such as food, stress, or poor sleep
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation: Vestibular rehabilitation may help with:
    • Balance
    • Walking
    • Recovery between or after attacks
  • Injections or Surgery: These treatments are usually considered only if other treatments do not help.

What Can I Expect Over Time?

Will I get better?

Many people have fewer or less intense attacks over time. Hearing may change and sometimes worsen.

How long will it take?

It may take weeks to months to find what works best.

Can I live a normal life?

Yes. Many people live full lives, but you may need a plan for flare-ups and safety.

When Should I Call My Provider?

Call your provider if you have:

  • More frequent or stronger attacks
  • New or worsening hearing loss
  • Trouble walking or frequent falls
  • Ongoing vomiting

Call 911 if you have:

  • Face drooping, weakness, or trouble speaking
  • Severe headache or fainting
  • Chest pain or trouble breathing
  • Severe confusion or head injury

Questions to Ask Your Provider

  • Could something else be causing my symptoms?
  • What tests do I need?
  • What should I do during an attack?
  • What treatments should I try first?
  • Do I need therapy or a hearing aid?
Asking these questions may help to give you more information about your dizziness and the future of your healthcare.

Key Takeaways/Key Points to Remember

  • Ménière’s disease affects balance and hearing.
  • Symptoms come in episodes and can be intense.
  • Diagnosis is based on symptoms and testing.
  • Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications, and therapy.
  • Many people improve with the right plan.

Additional Resources