How is Meniere's disease treated?

Meniere's disease affects the inner ear and can cause episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, pressure in the ear and ringing in the ears. A Hearing Test measures hearing and helps track change; a clinician may also assess balance and exclude other causes. Treatment depends on attack pattern, hearing findings, other health conditions and how symptoms affect daily activities.

A GP Consultation can start the assessment and arrange referral when needed. During vertigo, sit or lie somewhere safe, avoid driving and keep your head movements gentle. A clinician may prescribe medicine for an attack or nausea, discuss regular medicines, and recommend reducing dietary salt, limiting triggers such as excess caffeine or alcohol, stopping smoking, and keeping sleep regular when these changes suit you. Hearing aids, balance rehabilitation or specialist procedures may be considered if symptoms continue.

Seek emergency help for sudden hearing loss, new weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe headache, fainting, chest pain or difficulty walking that is different from usual attacks. Get urgent advice if vomiting prevents fluids, an episode does not settle, or you injure yourself during a fall. These features can have causes other than Meniere's disease.

Could my symptoms be Meniere's disease or another inner-ear problem? Do I need a Hearing Test or specialist review? Which medicines are for attacks versus prevention? What safety plan should I follow for driving, work and falls?