Can Meniere's disease be fatal?

Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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Meniere's disease is not life-threatening. Also known as Meniere's disease, it is caused by fluid accumulation in the inner ear labyrinth, leading to symptoms such as tinnitus, fluctuating hearing loss, revolving vision, and vertigo. When Meniere's disease occurs, we should first perform comprehensive examinations like cranial MRI and high-resolution CT of the temporal bone to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment primarily involves vasodilators, nerve nutrition, hormones, and vestibular suppressants to improve local symptoms. Additionally, during an episode, it is advisable to rest in a supine position, ensure adequate rest, avoid staying up late, and maintain a light diet to alleviate symptoms.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Is Ménière's disease the same as ear stone disease?

Meniere's disease is not the same as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV); they are two different types of disorders. Meniere's disease is primarily caused by fluid accumulation in the labyrinth, leading to episodic vertigo that typically lasts from 20 minutes to half a day. Most patients may also experience tinnitus and hearing loss, and in severe cases, nausea and vomiting. Overall, it is a common disease that tends to recur. Most patients can control and alleviate their symptoms through medication, but a small proportion may not respond well to medication and might need to consider surgical treatment. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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What is good to eat usually for Ménière's disease?

Ménière's disease is a common inner ear disorder that causes vertigo. Clinically, it is divided into two periods: an acute attack period and a quiescent period. Regarding the diet for Ménière's disease, first and foremost, the diet should be light, similar to fish, shrimp, seafood, while it is best to minimize or avoid consumption of alcohol, spicy foods such as chili peppers. Secondly, it is important to be aware of other items such as coffee and tea, which are stimulants and should ideally be avoided as they can affect the sleep patterns of patients with Ménière's disease. Thirdly, as previously mentioned, foods that are common allergens like fish, shrimp, and seafood should also be consumed in moderation.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Symptoms of Meniere's disease during the remission period

Meniere's disease is a relatively common inner ear disorder. If it is in the remission phase, there are likely no clinical symptoms because Meniere's disease may cause related clinical symptoms only during an acute episode, such as tinnitus, hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ears. However, specific symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Therefore, after the onset, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist as soon as possible. Audiology testing, otoscopic examination, and head MRI can be conducted to determine the specific cause and extent of the condition, and then targeted treatment can be administered. Generally, during the remission period, medication may not be required, but it is important to ensure rest, improve sleep, and avoid emotional distress.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can people with Ménière's disease drink milk?

Ménière's disease is a relatively common otolaryngological condition, and its clinical onset mechanism may be related to fluid accumulation in the membranous labyrinth. Symptoms are varied, with the most common being tinnitus, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and hearing loss. Generally speaking, it is acceptable to consume milk as it is not significantly irritating and does not directly worsen the condition of Ménière's disease. Furthermore, there is no direct conflict between milk and the medications or other treatment plans for Ménière’s disease. Therefore, it is safe to consume milk, which is also rich in nutrients and can help boost the body's immunity and meet its nutritional needs.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Precautions for Meniere's Disease

The first consideration for Ménière's disease is to try to avoid emotional fluctuations and maintain a pleasant mood. Emotional fluctuations can potentially trigger an acute attack of Ménière’s disease. Secondly, one should avoid noisy environments as much as possible, ensure rest, and improve sleep. Thirdly, in daily life, avoid consuming coffee, strong tea, cola, and try not to eat stimulating foods, as these factors may induce or aggravate the existing condition. Fourthly, regular check-ups at an otolaryngology (ENT) department are necessary to monitor any changes in hearing, as some patients might experience a gradual decline in hearing.