If you have Meniere's disease

Meniere's disease is an inner-ear condition involving the system that helps control hearing and balance. Episodes may include spinning vertigo, nausea, a blocked feeling, fluctuating hearing loss, and ringing in the ears. Attacks can be unpredictable, and balance may remain unsettled for a while afterward. Dizziness has many possible causes, so hearing symptoms and the timing of episodes help clinicians distinguish Meniere's disease from other vestibular or neurological problems.

Book a GP consultation for repeated vertigo, new hearing change, or persistent tinnitus. During an episode, sit or lie somewhere safe, avoid driving and heights, and ask someone to stay nearby if balance is poor. Keep a diary of episode timing, hearing changes, ringing, food or drink triggers, and medicines. A hearing test can document changes and guide further assessment.

Seek emergency help for sudden hearing loss, facial weakness, trouble speaking, new one-sided weakness, severe headache, fainting, or difficulty walking that does not settle. Get urgent advice if vertigo is continuous, you cannot keep fluids down, or an episode creates a serious risk of falling.

Ask whether your symptoms fit Meniere's disease, which hearing and balance tests are needed, how to stay safe during an episode, and when specialist review is appropriate.