Meniere’s disease is an inner ear disorder that affects both balance and hearing, causing recurrent episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. Although the exact causes are not fully understood, the syndrome can have a significant impact on patients’ quality of life, making proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan essential.
What is Meniere’s disease?
Meniere’s disease is a chronic condition of the inner ear characterized by abnormal accumulation of fluid (endolymph) in the labyrinth. This fluid buildup increases pressure inside the ear, disrupting both the auditory system and the vestibular system (responsible for balance). The condition usually affects one ear (unilateral), but in some cases it may progress to both ears.
What causes Meniere’s syndrome?
The exact cause remains unclear, but research suggests that several factors contribute to its development. Endolymphatic fluid imbalance in the inner ear may be influenced by genetic, autoimmune, or vascular mechanisms.
Risk factors that may trigger this condition
▪ Family history of Meniere’s disease
▪ Previous viral infections (especially in the inner ear)
▪ Recurrent migraines
▪ Head or ear trauma
▪ Autoimmune disorders
▪ Chronic stress and psychosomatic factors
Symptoms: when do they appear and how do they manifest?
▪ Meniere’s disease manifests in episodic attacks that may last from a few minutes to several hours. The most common symptoms include:
▪ Severe vertigo episodes (sensation that everything is spinning)
▪ Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
▪ Progressive hearing loss, initially fluctuating
▪ Pressure or a feeling of fullness in the affected ear
▪ Nausea and vomiting during vertigo attacks
▪ Persistent balance problems after the episodes
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Meniere’s disease is based on the patient’s medical history and reported symptoms. An ENT specialist may recommend audiometric tests to assess hearing loss, vestibular tests to evaluate balance, and imaging (MRI) to rule out other neurological conditions. Early diagnosis is crucial for controlling disease progression and improving quality of life.
What are the treatment options for Meniere’s disease?
The main goal of treatment is to reduce the severity of episodes and slow the progression of the condition. Management often combines lifestyle changes with medical therapies.
Recommended lifestyle and diet adjustments:
▪ Low-salt diet to reduce fluid retention
▪ Proper hydration
▪ Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake
▪ Avoiding stress and sleep deprivation
Medical and therapeutic options include:
▪ Medications to reduce vertigo and nausea
▪ Diuretics to regulate endolymphatic fluid
▪ Vestibular rehabilitation therapy to improve balance
▪ Minimally invasive procedures in severe cases
Additionally, modern complementary therapies may help alleviate symptoms and improve patient well-being:
▪ Hyperbaric oxygen therapy – improves tissue oxygenation and supports inner ear function.
▪ IV Vertigoheel therapy – helps reduce vertigo and stabilize the patient’s condition.
Treatment for Meniere’s Disease
Moreover, the holistic treatment of Meniere’s Disease aims not only to alleviate symptoms — such as vertigo, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and temporary hearing loss — but also to restore balance within the circulatory, nervous, and immune systems. At Quantica720° Clinic, patients benefit from innovative complementary therapies designed to support recovery and reduce the frequency of imbalance episodes.
Thermotherapy
This method uses controlled heat to improve circulation in the inner ear and reduce local inflammation. Thermotherapy helps relax blood vessels, balance endolymphatic pressure, and alleviate symptoms such as vertigo and tinnitus. Many patients report significant improvement even after just a few sessions.
Ozone Insufflations in the Ear
Medical ozone has strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and oxygenating properties. Ozone insufflations applied directly to the ear can help reduce chronic infections, lower pressure in the inner ear, and enhance cellular oxygenation, thus supporting hearing recovery and vestibular balance.
Photodynamic Therapy with Blue Laser and Riboflavin
This innovative procedure combines blue laser light with a photosensitive substance — riboflavin — to target and eliminate chronic infections that may worsen Meniere’s Disease symptoms. The therapy has antibacterial and antiviral effects, stimulates cellular regeneration, and helps restore inner ear function.
Acupuncture
By stimulating specific energy points, acupuncture balances the body’s energy flow, improves blood circulation, and regulates nervous system activity. In Meniere’s Disease, acupuncture has proven effective in reducing vertigo, relieving tinnitus, and diminishing the sensation of ear pressure, helping to stabilize the overall condition and enhance well-being.
Can complications occur?
If not properly managed, Meniere’s disease can lead to various complications. The most common is progressive and permanent hearing loss, which can significantly affect communication and social interactions. Recurrent severe vertigo may also cause long-term balance problems, increasing the risk of falls and related injuries. In addition, the unpredictability of attacks can contribute to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and even social isolation.
Prevention methods
While there is no definitive way to prevent Meniere’s disease, certain lifestyle choices can help reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms. Preventive strategies focus on maintaining inner ear health and minimizing triggers:
▪ Following a low-salt diet to reduce fluid retention
▪ Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
▪ Staying properly hydrated throughout the day
▪ Practicing stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises
▪ Keeping a consistent sleep routine
▪ Scheduling regular check-ups with an ENT specialist for monitoring and early intervention
Frequently asked questions:
Can Meniere’s disease be cured?
At present, there is no definitive cure for Meniere’s disease. However, there are multiple treatment options that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of episodes, as well as slow down the progression of hearing loss. Through a combination of medication, dietary adjustments, and complementary therapies, many patients are able to manage their symptoms effectively and lead an almost normal life.
How much can it affect your quality of life?
Meniere’s disease can have a significant impact on daily life. Vertigo attacks are unpredictable and debilitating, often making it difficult to walk or perform everyday tasks. Hearing loss can interfere with communication, while constant tinnitus may cause continuous discomfort. In addition, the anxiety and stress associated with the condition can further affect emotional well-being. Nevertheless, with a proper management plan, many patients experience a substantial improvement in their quality of life.
Where can I work if I suffer from this condition?
People with Meniere’s disease can continue working, but it is important to choose a work environment adapted to their needs. Jobs involving loud noise exposure, working at heights, or tasks with a high risk of accidents may be more challenging to handle. On the other hand, roles that allow flexible schedules, regular breaks, and a quieter environment are generally more suitable. Open communication with the employer and workplace adjustments are essential to maintain professional activity safely.
Bibliography:
Harcourt, J., Barraclough, K., & Bronstein, A. M. (2014). Meniere’s disease. Bmj, 349.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menieres-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20374910 - Accessed on 03.10.2025
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15167-menieres-disease - Accessed on 03.10.2025
