Meniere's Syndrome

"Meniere's" is a condition affecting the inner ear. Although we don't have a specific cause for Meniere's, we do recognize that the major symptoms are very debilitating. These are vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing fluctuation, and pressure or fullness in the ear.

In a healthy ear, a message is triggered from the inner ear to the brain, letting the brain know that there is some sort of imbalance. The brain sends a return message asking the inner ears' nerve cells to correct this imbalance. 

Our cells automatically carry out this message or command. It is our body's intention to be "in balance" at all times, so it adjusts for any differences.

In Meniere's, these filtration and excretion activities seem to be hindered or impaired. So any message is either not going to be received correctly nor will it be interpreted and returned appropriately (A simplistic interpretation.)

Although it can be troublesome, Meniere's is not something that's contagious and it isn't fatal. 

Meniere's disease usually occurs in only one ear. It affects both ears in only about 30% of patients. The major symptoms that cause most of the difficulty are characterized by abnormal sensation of movement (vertigo), loss of hearing, and noises or ringing (tinnitus) in one or both ears. 

This condition has an affect on the entire family. Not only does the person have the attack, but the family also has to tiptoe around and be very quiet. Frequently they are speaking to a person that can't hear them very well, either one or both ears. It's very frustrating and tiring.

March 15/02
Karin.

Click here if you would like more detailed information about Meniere's Disease.  I would be happy to discuss any problems or questions you have about this disease.
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Karin Henderson British Columbia, Canada (604) 463 8666