Signs of Meniere's disease

Meniere's disease affects the inner ear, which helps control hearing and balance. Vertigo may feel like spinning or movement and can come with nausea, unsteadiness, or sensitivity to motion. Hearing changes often affect one ear first and may vary over time. A low-pitched ringing or pressure in that ear can occur during the same period. These symptoms can also have other causes, so a symptom alone does not establish the condition.

Keep a brief record of attacks, including how long they last, which ear feels different, hearing changes, ear noise, triggers and any vomiting. Arrange a GP Consultation for an examination and discussion of your history. A Hearing Test can measure hearing in each ear and help guide referral. During an attack, sit or lie somewhere safe, avoid driving and rise slowly once your balance returns.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden hearing loss, new weakness, trouble speaking, fainting, severe headache, chest pain or difficulty walking that does not settle. Get prompt care if vertigo is continuous, repeated vomiting prevents fluids, or you cannot stay safe while standing. New one-sided hearing symptoms deserve timely assessment even when the episode feels manageable.

Could these episodes be coming from the inner ear, and what other causes should be checked? Do I need a Hearing Test or specialist assessment? What should I do if spinning, ear pressure or hearing changes return?