Meniere's Disease Flashcards
What is Meniere’s disease?
A long-term inner ear disorder that causes recurrent attacks of vertigo
Meniere’s disease is characterized by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
What are the components of the classic triad in Meniere’s disease?
- Hearing loss
- Vertigo
- Tinnitus
At what age does Meniere’s disease typically present?
Generally 40-50 years old
The condition often affects individuals in middle adulthood.
Describe the nature of vertigo in Meniere’s disease.
Episodic, lasting 20 seconds to several hours, not triggered by movement or posture
Vertigo is a key symptom and can be quite debilitating.
How does hearing loss present in Meniere’s disease?
Initially fluctuating, associated with vertigo, can progress to permanent, sensorineural, unilateral, low frequencies affected first.
What are other symptoms associated with Meniere’s disease?
- Sensation of fullness in ear
- Unexplained falls (‘drop attacks’) without loss of consciousness
- Imbalance outside of vertigo
- Spontaneous nystagmus - unidirectional
How is Meniere’s disease diagnosed?
Based on signs and symptoms, diagnosed by ENT specialist, patients require audiology assessment.
What are the management goals for Meniere’s disease?
- Manage symptoms during an attack
- Prophylactic medication to reduce frequency of attacks
What treatments are used during acute attacks of Meniere’s disease?
- Prochlorperazine
- Antihistamines (e.g. cyclizine, cinnarizine, promethazine)
What is a common prophylactic medication for Meniere’s disease?
Betahistine
