Ménière’s Disease

Question 1

What is Ménière’s Disease

Answer 1

Long-term inner ear disorder that causes recurrent attacks of vertigo

Question 2

Presentation of Meniere’s disease

Answer 2

Recurrent, unilateral attacks of vertigo

Hearing loss

Tinnitus

Feeling of fullness in the ear

Question 3

Pathophysiology of Ménière’s disease

Answer 3

Build up of endolymph (endolymphatic hydrops) in the labyrinth of the inner ear, causing a higher pressure than normal and disrupting the sensory signals.

Question 4

What age range does Meniere’s disease normally occur in

Answer 4

40 - 50 years old

Question 5

How long does the vertigo last in Meniere’s disease

Answer 5

20 minutes to several hours

Question 6

Which type of hearing loss is associated with Meniere’s disease

Answer 6

Sensorineural hearing loss

Question 7

What type of nystagmus may be seen in Meniere’s disease?

Answer 7

Spontaneous nystagmus - unidirectional

Question 8

Diagnosing Meniere’s disease

Answer 8

Clinical - made by an ENT specialist

Audiology assessment -evaluate hearing loss

Question 9

Management of Meniere’s disease

Answer 9

Managing symptoms during an acute attack:

• Prochlorperazine
• Antihistamines (e.g., cyclizine, cinnarizine and promethazine)

Prophylactic medication - Betahistine