I think I have Meniere's disease: what should I know?

Meniere's disease can cause repeated episodes of vertigo with fluctuating hearing changes, ringing in the ears or pressure. These symptoms have other possible causes, so a diagnosis cannot be made from symptoms alone.

Meniere's disease affects the inner ear, which helps control hearing and balance. A typical episode may bring a spinning sensation, nausea or unsteadiness, followed by fatigue. Hearing changes may come and go, while Ringing in the Ears or a blocked feeling can accompany them. Dizziness without hearing symptoms can have a different explanation, and sudden Hearing Loss needs prompt medical assessment.

Write down when each episode starts, how long it lasts, which ear feels affected, and whether hearing or ringing changes before or after it. Note recent infections, medicines, head injury and activities that make balance harder. Arrange a GP Consultation for an examination and referral if needed. A Hearing Test can document hearing at a particular point and help distinguish inner-ear patterns from other causes. Sit or lie somewhere safe during an attack and avoid driving, heights or machinery until balance has returned.

Seek emergency help for sudden hearing loss, severe new headache, fainting, chest pain, trouble speaking, facial weakness, one-sided weakness or difficulty walking that does not settle. These features may signal a problem other than an inner-ear disorder. Get prompt advice if vomiting prevents fluids, attacks are becoming more frequent, or symptoms create a fall risk.

Do my episode pattern and ear symptoms fit an inner-ear cause? Which tests or referrals are appropriate? What should I do during an attack? When is hearing change urgent? Could any medicine or other condition be affecting balance?