How long does Meniere's disease last?

Meniere's disease does not follow one timetable. A vertigo attack may be brief or continue for several hours, followed by tiredness or an unsteady feeling. Hearing may fluctuate around attacks, while ringing or a blocked sensation can linger. Some people have long symptom-free intervals; others notice recurring symptoms. Persistent hearing change should be reviewed even when the spinning sensation has stopped.

Record the start and end of each attack, balance between episodes, hearing changes, ringing and possible triggers. During vertigo, lie down in a safe place, move slowly and avoid driving. Book a GP appointment when attacks repeat, last longer than expected, or interfere with work, walking or sleep. A hearing test can provide a useful baseline for follow-up.

Get urgent help if dizziness continues with new weakness, numbness, facial drooping, speech difficulty, fainting, severe headache or inability to walk safely. Seek prompt assessment for sudden hearing loss or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down.

Ask how long your attacks may reasonably last, what to do during one, whether hearing should be monitored, and which changes need urgent review.