Ear OTC - Meniere’s Disease

Question 1

What are the main features of Ménière’s disease? (5)

Answer 1

Progressive disorder of inner ear.
Fluid build up in inner ear.
Age 30-60 yrs.
Attack can last 20 mins-hrs
Attack frequent/once every few months.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of Ménière’s disease? (7)

Answer 2

Vertigo (spinning)
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Dulled hearing, Tinnitus
Pressure
Headache (migraine like aura)

Question 3

What are the treatment options for Ménière’s disease? (2)

Answer 3

Acute attacks: Prochlorperazine 5mg TDS 7/7 (POM). Vertigo/N+V, Buccally/rectally. Cinnarizine 30mg TDS 7d can be given OTC.

Prophylactic: Betahistine (POM) BNF: 24-48mg with food. RCT: 16mg BD for 3 months.