Ménière's Disease

Ménière's Disease affects the inner ear and the vestibular system, which is the system that helps to maintain balance. In this disease, a part of the cochlea called the organ of Corti becomes swollen, leading to a loss of hearing that may come and go over time. It can also cause severe dizziness, lack of balance, tinnitus (ringing/buzzing sound in the ears), ear pain, and pressure. The disease can exist in mild or severe forms. Approximately 615,000 individuals have been diagnosed with Ménière's disease in the United States. Another 45,500 are newly diagnosed each year. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and results of hearing tests. Unfortunately, doctors don’t know what causes Ménière's disease, and there is no cure. Researchers think that it may have to do with fluid levels in the inner ear. Ménière's disease treatment for includes medicines to help control dizziness and fluid  retention in the body, and devices that deliver air pulses to the middle ear. Surgery may also be required. Estimates suggest that 6 out of 10 people will get better on their own or can control the symptoms with diet, drugs or devices.