What should you know about probable Meniere's disease?

Meniere's disease affects the inner ear, which helps control hearing and balance. Episodes may involve a spinning sensation, pressure or fullness in one ear, reduced hearing, and ringing in the ears. Symptoms can come and go, and hearing may be less clear during or after an episode. The word probable means the pattern is suggestive, not that the diagnosis has been established. Other inner-ear, neurological, medication-related, or circulation problems can produce similar symptoms.

A clinician will consider the timing and duration of attacks, which ear is affected, changes in hearing, triggers, medicines, migraine history, and other neurological symptoms. A hearing test can document the type and pattern of hearing change. Read more about [Meniere's Disease](/conditions/menieres-disease/), [Vertigo](/symptoms/vertigo/), and [Ringing in the Ears](/symptoms/ringing-in-ears/).

Arrange a GP Consultation if these episodes are new, recurrent, or affecting work, driving, walking, or communication. Keep a simple diary noting the start and end of each attack, spinning or imbalance, hearing changes, ear symptoms, headache, recent illness, and medicines. During an episode, sit or lie somewhere safe, avoid driving, and move slowly when standing. A clinician may arrange a Hearing Test or referral to an ear, nose and throat specialist. Do not change prescribed medicines or restrict fluids without personalised advice.

Seek emergency help for sudden hearing loss, severe new headache, fainting, chest pain, trouble speaking, facial weakness, one-sided weakness or numbness, inability to walk safely, or vertigo with a new neurological symptom. Get prompt medical advice if vomiting prevents fluids, an attack is unusually severe, or symptoms follow a head injury. These warning signs need assessment because they are not explained by how common Meniere's disease is.

Ask what features make Meniere's disease probable, what other causes should be checked, whether hearing should be tested during follow-up, and which activities are unsafe during an attack. Ask how to record symptoms and what plan to follow if hearing, balance, or ringing changes.