Ménière Disease
Medical Author:
Bryon K McNeil, MD
Coauthor:
Maged Botros, MD
Medical Editor:
Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
Richard Harrigan, MD
Meniere's Disease OverviewMénière disease is a syndrome in which you experience episodes of spinning vertigo (sense of the room spinning), hearing loss, and tinnitus (ringing in the ear). Between the unpredictable attacks, you usually do not have any problems or symptoms of the disease. Ménière disease was first described in 1861 by the French physician Prosper Ménière. Yet the cause of this syndrome still remains largely unknown. The diagnosis of the disease is usually based on a careful history and physical examination by a doctor, but other tests may be needed for a definitive diagnosis and to plan treatment options. Ménière disease affects people of all ages, especially those of middle age or older. It is, however, uncommon in children. Viewer Comments & ReviewsMeniere's Disease - Describe Your ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with Meniere's disease. Meniere Disease - Symptoms Experienced and Effective TreatmentsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your symptoms and effective treatment for meniere disease. |
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Meniere Disease
Labyrinthitis Overview
Labyrinthitis means an inflammation of the inner ear structure called the labyrinth. Sometimes the term labyrinthitis refers to other causes of inner ear problems that have no inflammation because those problems produce similar symptoms.
- You have a labyrinth in each of your inner ears,
encased in thick bone near the base of your skull. As the name implies, the
labyrinth is a maze of interconnected fluid-filled channels and canals. Half
of the labyrinth, the cochlea, is shaped like a snail's shell. It sends
information about sounds to the brain. The other half looks something like a
gyroscope with 3 semicircular canals connected to an open cavern or vestibule. The vestibule portion of the labyrinth sends information to the brain regarding the position and movement of your
head. Any disturbance of the vestibule can lead to faulty information going to your brain.
- Your eyes also send positi...
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Meniere Disease »
Ménière disease, also known as idiopathic endolymphatic hydrops, is a disorder of the inner ear resulting in the clinical triad of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
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